Fake Tech Support: How to Avoid Getting Scammed by a Phony ‘Helper'

Fake Tech Support Scam

Have you ever seen a scary pop-up on your computer that says, “Your computer is infected—call this number immediately”? Or maybe you got a phone call from someone claiming to be from Microsoft or Apple?

These are tech support scams, and they’re becoming more common—especially among older adults. The scammers sound helpful, but they’re actually trying to trick you into giving them money or access to your computer.

Let’s break it down so you know how to stay safe.

What Is a Tech Support Scam?

A tech support scam is when someone pretends to be from a trusted company—like Microsoft, Apple, or Norton—and tells you there’s something wrong with your computer.

They may:

• Call you out of the blue
• Show a fake pop-up or warning message on your screen
• Ask you to give them remote control of your computer
• Ask for payment to “fix” a problem that doesn’t really exist

Their goal is to scare you into handing over money, passwords, or control of your device.

What It Might Look or Sound Like

Phone call example:

“Hello, I’m calling from Microsoft. We’ve detected a virus on your computer. If you don’t fix it right away, you could lose all your files.”

Pop-up example:

“ALERT! Your computer is infected. Call 1-800-XXX-XXXX to speak with a technician.”

These messages are fake. Real companies like Microsoft or Apple do not call you or show urgent pop-ups telling you to call them.

What Happens If You Call or Let Them In?

If you call the number or follow their instructions, they may:

• Ask you to install software that lets them take control of your computer
• Show fake error messages to scare you
• Ask for your credit card or bank information
• Steal your personal files or install viruses

They can even lock you out of your own computer.

How to Stay Safe

• Don’t trust pop-ups or random calls. Real tech companies will not contact you this way.
• Never give control of your computer to a stranger.
• Don’t give out your credit card or bank information.
• If you’re unsure, shut down the computer and call someone you trust.
• Install antivirus software and keep your system up to date.

What to Do If You Think You’ve Been Scammed

• Turn off your computer right away.
• Call someone you trust or a real tech support professional.
• Change your passwords, especially for online banking or email.
• Contact your bank or credit card company to report any suspicious activity.
• Report the scam to the FTC:  https://reportfraud.ftc.gov

Final Thoughts

Scammers are clever and convincing—but you can outsmart them. If something feels urgent, scary, or confusing, that’s a sign to pause. Don’t act fast—ask questions, check with someone you trust, and never give out information or money to someone you don’t know.