What Are Tech Support Scams?
Tech support scams are one of the most persistent and damaging phone scams in operation. Scammers call pretending to be from well-known technology companies like Microsoft, Apple, or Google, claiming they have detected a virus, security breach, or technical problem on your computer. Their goal is to gain remote access to your device, steal personal information, or charge you for unnecessary \"repairs.\"
According to the FTC, tech support scams cost consumers hundreds of millions of dollars every year, with losses continuing to rise.
How These Scams Typically Work
Tech support scams follow a well-rehearsed script:
- The initial contact — You receive an unsolicited call, or a pop-up appears on your screen with a phone number to call. The caller claims to be from a reputable company\\'s technical support team.
- The scare tactic — They tell you your computer is infected with a virus, has been compromised by hackers, or is sending error reports to their servers.
- The demonstration — If you engage, they may ask you to open Event Viewer or other system tools to show you \"errors\" — which are actually normal system logs that every computer generates.
- Remote access — They ask you to install remote access software like TeamViewer, AnyDesk, or UltraViewer so they can \"fix\" the problem.
- The payment — After pretending to work on your computer, they demand payment ranging from $200 to $1,000 or more for their \"services,\" often requesting payment via gift cards or wire transfer.
Microsoft, Apple, Google, and other major tech companies will never call you unsolicited about a problem with your computer. If you receive such a call, it is a scam — every single time.
Warning Signs of a Tech Support Scam
Watch for these red flags:
- An unsolicited call claiming to be from a tech company\\'s support team.
- Pop-up warnings on your screen with a phone number to call — legitimate security software does not do this.
- Requests to install remote access software on your computer.
- Pressure to act immediately because your computer is \"at risk.\"
- Payment demands via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
- Claims that they need your bank login to \"process a refund.\"
What to Do If You Receive a Tech Support Scam Call
If you suspect a tech support scam, take these steps:
- Hang up immediately — Do not engage with the caller or follow any instructions they give.
- Do not grant remote access — Never install remote access software at the request of an unsolicited caller.
- Look up the number — Use CallerInfo.net to check if the number has been reported as a scam.
- Close pop-ups safely — If you see a fake warning, close your browser using Task Manager (Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Windows or Force Quit on Mac). Do not call the number displayed.
If You Already Fell for the Scam
If you gave a scammer remote access or payment, act quickly:
- Uninstall any remote access software they had you install.
- Run a full scan with legitimate antivirus software.
- Change all passwords for accounts you accessed while the scammer had control.
- Contact your bank or credit card company to dispute charges and secure your accounts.
- Report the scam to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Tech support scams prey on fear and urgency. Remembering that legitimate companies do not make unsolicited support calls is your strongest defense.