WESLACO – A Rio Grande Valley woman said she’s being harassed by automated messages claiming to be from Microsoft.

The timing of these messages comes days after the massive malware attack on the popular operating system. The unknown hackers used a hole in the software to gain access to files.

An estimated 300,000 machines in 150 countries were hit last week, according to the U.S. government.

The woman requested her identity be kept hidden. We will call her Ann.

Ann said the message she got was short, direct and to the point. The person on the other side of the line claimed they were capable of fixing her computer through the phone.

“You get the routine other types of phone calls for solicitations and stuff like that, but nothing regarding this,” she said.

Ann said the calls became persistent shortly after she learned of the massive malware attack. She thought she was one of the targets.

With a Microsoft account of her own, Ann said she felt there may be some truth to the calls. After verification, she learned the calls weren’t real.  

KRGV web producer Amanda Alaniz said people should be alert when receiving these types of calls. She said most of the times they’re made in an attempt to obtain personal information.

“If you get a call from Microsoft, it’s probably not a legit call because Microsoft won’t call you. You have to call them. If you have issues with your account, the best thing to do is contact their customer service line,” she said.

We also looked up the number online. We found several people claimed to have fallen victims to the same number.

Microsoft urges users to report these activities directly to them by visiting their website. Users are required to give the date of when they tried to call them, how they tried to contact them, whether they claimed to be from Microsoft and if they tried to access their computer remotely. They will also ask other questions before submitting the complaint.

Ann said she wants other to be aware.

“For those of you who may answer it, please do not return the phone call,” she said.

The Better Business Bureau also urged people to never give personal information to a stranger over the phone.

People can report these phony calls by contacting the BBB at 969-1804.