Tech Support Scams
May 1, 2025
Tech support scammers typically pressure individuals to pay for services they do not need or offer to fix computer problems that do not actually exist. These scams follow many of the same patterns as other schemes, with bad actors requesting payment by gift card, prepaid card, wire, cryptocurrency, etc. Read on to find out how to spot and avoid tech support scams, what to do if you think you were scammed, and what to do if you truly do have an issue with your computer.
Spotting and Avoiding Tech Support Scams
- Unsolicited calls – If someone calls claiming to be a computer technician and tells you they found an issue with your computer and asks for remote access to run a diagnostic test, hang up immediately and do not provide any information.
- Pop-up warnings – If you receive a pop-up window on your screen that warns of a security issue and provides a number to talk with a technician, do not call the number. Real security warnings will not display this way.
How to Respond if You Have Been Scammed
- Contact your bank or credit card issuer immediately if you paid with a debit card or credit card.
- Update your security software if you gave a scammer remote access to your computer. Once the software has been updated, run a scan immediately and delete anything identified as a problem.
- Change your usernames and passwords right away.
If you believe there is a problem with your computer after updating your security software and running a scan, contact a support company you know and trust.