Tech Support Scams
Fake warnings or calls claiming your computer is infected, aiming to get remote access, money, or account details.
Think a message like this reached you? You can check it right now.
What this scam is
A scammer pretends to be computer support. It might start with a scary pop-up, a phone call, or an email claiming your device is infected or hacked. The goal is to get you to call a number, install software that hands over control of your computer, or pay for fake 'repairs'.
What it usually looks like
- A full-screen pop-up warning that says your computer is infected and gives a phone number.
- An unexpected call from someone claiming to be from a well-known tech company.
- A request to install a 'support tool' so they can fix the problem remotely.
Common warning signs
- Real companies do not put their phone number in a pop-up warning.
- They pressure you to act immediately and stay on the phone.
- They ask you to install remote-access software or buy gift cards.
Example wording scammers use
“Warning! Your computer has been locked due to a virus. Call Microsoft Support at 1-800-000-0000 immediately.”
“Do not restart your computer. Install this support tool so I can remove the infection.”
These are illustrative examples written by ScamSplain, not real messages.
What the scammers want
- Remote control of your computer.
- Payment for fake repairs, often by gift card or wire transfer.
- Access to your bank or personal accounts.
What to do
- Do not call the number in a pop-up.
- Close the pop-up, or shut down and restart your computer.
- Never install remote-access software because a caller asked you to.
- If you did not start the contact, hang up.
What to do if you already responded
- Disconnect the computer from the internet if someone connected to it.
- Uninstall any remote-access software they had you install.
- Change important passwords from a different, clean device.
- Contact your bank if you shared money or account information.