Technical Support Scam - How to Protect Yourself

How Tech Support Scams Work

• Fake Pop-Up Warnings: Alarming browser alerts appear suddenly while you are surfing the web, claiming your system is locked or infected with a Trojan, and urging you to call a displayed helpline number immediately.
• Unsolicited Cold Calls: You receive an unexpected phone call or message from someone claiming your computer sent an error signal to their network, and they offer to walk you through a fix.
• Search Engine Traps: Fraudsters buy top display ads or manipulate search engine results so their fraudulent help numbers appear when users search for real brand assistance.
• Remote Access Manipulation: Once on the phone, the scammer persuades you to install remote-desktop software like TeamViewer or AnyDesk, using that access to show you normal system files and falsely claim they are dangerous malware.
• The Government Hand-Off: In more complex or expensive variations, the scammer claims your identity or bank account has been compromised in a crime, transferring you to an accomplice posing as a fake police officer or federal agent.

Key Red Flags to Watch For

• Unsolicited Contact: Legitimate tech companies like Microsoft or Apple do not monitor your device health remotely or call you out of the blue.
• Helpline Numbers in Alerts: Real operating system error messages or security pop-ups never include a telephone number for you to call.
• High Pressure and Panic: Scammers deliberately manufacture a false sense of urgency to prevent you from slowing down and verifying their claims.
• Unusual Payment Demands: They insist on payment methods that act like cash and are virtually impossible to reverse, such as gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or peer-to-peer payment apps.

If You Encounter a Scam

1. Do not call the number listed in any pop-up warning.
2. Force-quit your browser or shut down your computer using the power button if a webpage has locked your screen.
3. Disconnect from the internet immediately if you allowed a stranger remote access to your device.
4. Uninstall any remote-access applications the scammer had you install.
5. Run a trusted offline virus scan using your device's built-in security software.
6. Change your passwords from a separate, secure device for any accounts that may have been exposed.
7. Contact your bank to contest charges or freeze cards if you provided financial information.