Tech Support Scam Protection: Don't Fall for Fake Computer Warnings

The fake warning popup

You're browsing the web when a full-screen warning appears: "WARNING: Your computer has been infected with a virus!" The popup looks professional, often mimicking Windows or Apple warnings. It may play alarming sounds and prevent you from closing it easily.

The call-to-action button

The popup displays a phone number to call for "immediate support" or a button to download "antivirus software." Both lead to scammers. The phone number connects you to a fake support center; the download installs malware.

The urgent tone

Everything about the fake warning screams urgency. "ACT NOW!" "Your data is at risk!" "Call immediately!" This panic is intentional—scared people make poor decisions.

The follow-up pressure

If you call the number, a scammer pretending to be tech support will verify the "infection," use remote access software to show you fake problems on your screen, then demand payment ($300-500 typical) to "fix" everything.

Fake virus warning popups

These appear while you're browsing websites (especially free content sites). They claim your device has viruses, spyware, or security threats. Apple and Microsoft never pop up warnings telling you to call a number—they provide warnings within their built-in security settings only.

Cold calls claiming to be Microsoft or Apple

A scammer calls claiming to be from Microsoft or Apple's support team, saying they've detected a virus on your computer. They ask you to give them remote access to "fix" it. Real companies never call unsolicited about viruses detected on your device.

Fake antivirus software

You download what appears to be antivirus software (often from an ad or fake warning), but it's actually malware. The fake antivirus then displays endless fake warnings to pressure you into paying for the "full version."

Remote access software exploitation

Scammers convince you to download remote access software (TeamViewer, AnyDesk, etc.) to "fix" your computer. Once installed, they have access to your files, passwords, and banking information. They may lock you out of your own computer.

Fake refund scams

After "fixing" your computer and charging you, the scammer offers a "refund" but asks for bank account access to process it. They're actually stealing your banking information.

Scare tactics about your browser

Popups claim your browser has "outdated plugins," "malicious extensions," or is "compromised." They pressure you to click links that either install malware or collect personal information.

Real vs. fake warnings

• Real warnings: Come from your operating system (Windows, Mac) or apps directly, not from web popups
• Real warnings: Don't include phone numbers to call or links to download software
• Real warnings: Use your operating system's native interface, not flashy graphical designs
• Fake warnings: Use alarming language and sounds to create panic
• Fake warnings: Display phone numbers prominently ("Call now!")
• Fake warnings: Can't be closed easily or keep reappearing

Unsolicited calls from tech support

Microsoft, Apple, and other legitimate companies do NOT call people unsolicited to alert them about viruses. If someone calls claiming to be tech support, it's a scam. Hang up immediately.

Request for remote access

Be extremely suspicious if someone asks for remote access to your computer. Once granted, they can access all your files, passwords, banking information, and emails. Never grant remote access to unsolicited callers.

Payment request

Legitimate tech support may have a fee for professional help, but unsolicited tech support calls that demand immediate payment are always scams. Real companies don't pressure you to pay immediately via gift card or wire transfer.

If you see a fake warning popup

Don't click anything on the popup. Force-quit your browser: Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete (Windows) or Command+Option+Escape (Mac), select your browser, and click End Task/Force Quit. Restart your browser and check your security settings.

If you received a suspicious phone call

Hang up immediately. Do not give them remote access or any personal information. Block the number. Run a security scan on your computer to ensure no malware was installed during the call.

If you already gave remote access

Disconnect your computer from the internet immediately. Contact a trusted tech professional to scan your computer for malware. Change your passwords for all important accounts (email, banking, social media). Consider placing a fraud alert on your credit report.

If you paid the scammers

Contact your bank or credit card company immediately to dispute the charge. Report the scam to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov. Follow our recovery resources for additional support and steps to take.