Tech support scams

You receive an unexpected call or pop-up message on your computer warning of an issue, such as a virus or other malware. The caller or pop-up claims to be from tech support and asks for access to your computer to fix the issue or offer you a refund. Typically, the scammer will ask you to type a specific command to enable this access. Once they have control of your computer, they may require payment for technical assistance, install malicious software, change settings to leave your computer vulnerable, or ask you to log on to your bank account to steal your financial information.

What you can do

• Never give control of your computer to anyone who contacts you.
• If you get an unexpected or urgent call from someone who claims to be tech support, hang up. It’s not a real call.
• Don’t rely on caller ID. Scammers can spoof the name of a company to make the call seem legitimate.
• If you get a pop-up message warning you about a computer problem or telling you to call tech support, ignore it.
• If you’re concerned about your computer, call your security software company directly using the number on the company’s website.