How to Identify Fake Tech Support Scams
Tech support scams are among the most common scams targeting older adults. They often begin with a frightening pop-up, an unexpected call, or a message claiming your computer has been hacked or infected. Knowing the pattern can help you pause before acting.
How These Scams Typically Work
The pattern is usually similar, regardless of which company the scammer claims to represent:
- 1A pop-up appears on your computer warning that it has a virus or has been hacked, with a phone number to call immediately.
- 2Or, you receive an unsolicited call from someone claiming to be from Microsoft, Apple, your internet provider, or a security company.
- 3The caller says they need remote access to your computer to fix the problem.
- 4After gaining access, they claim to find serious issues and request payment — often by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency.
- 5They may send a document, receipt, invoice, or "refund form" to make the interaction look like a legitimate business transaction.
Risk Signals to Watch For
- !You receive an unsolicited pop-up or call claiming your computer has a problem you weren't aware of.
- !The caller asks you to download software or give them remote access to your device.
- !Payment is requested by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency.
- !A document, receipt, or form is sent to you by someone you did not contact first.
- !You are discouraged from discussing the situation with family members, friends, or your bank.
If a tech support contact asks for payment
A real tech company will not ask for payment by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency. If someone requests payment in any of those forms — stop. Do not pay. End the call. Contact the company directly using a number from their official website.
What to Do Instead
- 1Don't call pop-up numbers: Close the browser window or restart your computer. Legitimate security alerts do not include phone numbers to call.
- 2Don't give remote access: Never allow someone to access your computer unless you initiated the support request through an official channel.
- 3Check any documents before acting: If you receive a receipt, invoice, or form from a tech support contact, upload it to VerifyBefore before you sign, respond, or pay.
- 4Contact the company independently: If you have a concern about your device, contact the manufacturer or your internet provider using a phone number from their official website.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tell if a tech support call is a scam?
Legitimate tech companies — including Microsoft, Apple, and internet providers — do not make unsolicited calls to tell you your computer has a problem. If you receive an unexpected call claiming your device has a virus or has been hacked, hang up. Do not give the caller remote access to your computer or provide any payment. Call the company directly using a number from their official website if you have concerns about your device.
What should I do if I already gave someone remote access to my computer?
Disconnect your computer from the internet immediately (unplug the cable or turn off Wi-Fi). Contact your bank if you shared any financial information or provided payment. Change your passwords from a different device. Consider reaching out to a trusted local computer repair service or family member for help. You can also report the incident to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Can a document from a tech support scammer look official?
Yes. Scammers often send receipts, invoices, contracts, or refund forms designed to look like they are from Microsoft, Apple, your bank, or another trusted organization. These documents may use real logos and professional formatting. Always verify by contacting the organization using independently sourced contact information before responding to or signing anything.
Why do scammers send documents or receipts?
Documents create a false sense of legitimacy and urgency. A receipt or invoice makes the scam feel like a real business transaction. They may also send documents to collect a signature, get you to agree to terms, or obtain personal information. If you receive an unexpected document from a tech support contact, do not sign or act on it without first verifying who sent it.
Received a Document From a Tech Support Contact?
Upload it to VerifyBefore for a free review of risk signals and verification gaps — before you sign, respond, or send any money.
Check a Document Free