You’re just browsing the internet when suddenly, your screen is filled with a blaring pop-up. It warns you that your computer is infected with a serious virus and that you need to call a "tech support" hotline immediately. Or maybe your phone rings, and a person claiming to be from a major tech company like Microsoft or Apple tells you they've detected a problem with your computer. This isn't a helpful alert—it's a tech support scam, and its only goal is to trick you into paying for a problem that doesn't exist.
How the Scam Works
Tech support scammers are masters of deception. They use a variety of tactics to create a sense of panic and urgency, hoping you'll act without thinking.
- The Scary Pop-Up: This is a classic method. A pop-up window will appear on your screen, often with a loud alarm sound. It uses logos from well-known companies and alarming language ("Your computer is at risk!") to scare you into calling a phone number.
- The Unsolicited Call: The scammer pretends to be from a reputable company and uses a lot of technical jargon to convince you that your computer is infected or has a serious error. They might even "spoof" their phone number to make it look like they're calling from a legitimate source.
- The Fake Website: They can create fake websites that look just like the real thing, designed to lure you in through a search ad or a link in a phishing email. Once you're on the site, they'll try to get you to download malicious software or enter personal information.
Once they have you on the hook, they'll ask you to give them remote access to your computer. They'll then run a series of fake diagnostic tests, show you harmless system files, and pretend that they've found a "virus" or "trojans." To "fix" the problem, they'll demand payment, often using methods that are hard to trace, like gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
Spotting the Red Flags
Don't fall for their tricks! Here's how to spot a tech support scam:
- Legitimate Companies Don't Call You: Reputable tech companies will never call you out of the blue to tell you your computer has a problem. You call them for support, not the other way around.
- Scare Tactics: If the message is high-pressure and creates a sense of panic, it’s a scam. Real security warnings don't use flashy, alarmist language.
- Requests for Remote Access: Never give anyone remote access to your computer unless you have initiated the contact and you are certain the company is legitimate.
- Unusual Payment Methods: No real company will ever ask you to pay for services using gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers. They use secure, verifiable payment methods.
- Pop-up with a Phone Number: A true security alert from a legitimate company will never ask you to call a phone number.
What to Do If You're Targeted
- Don't Engage: If you get an unsolicited call, hang up immediately. If you see a pop-up, don't call the number or click on any links. Instead, close the browser or restart your computer.
- Verify Independently: If you're concerned about a problem with your computer, go to the official website of the company in question and contact them using their verified support number.
- Run a Scan: Run a full scan with your legitimate, up-to-date antivirus software. This will show you if you actually have a problem.
What to Do If You've Been Scammed
If you've already fallen victim, don't feel embarrassed—these criminals are very good at what they do.
- Disconnect Immediately: If you gave a scammer remote access, disconnect your computer from the internet.
- Change Passwords: Change all of your passwords, especially for banking and email.
- Contact Your Bank: If you paid the scammer, contact your bank or credit card company immediately to report the fraud.
- Report It: File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
By staying vigilant, you can outsmart these scammers and keep your computer—and your wallet—safe.
