Tech-Support Scams: The Fake "Your Computer Is Infected" Call

What it is

A tech-support scam convinces you that your computer is infected or compromised so that a fake “technician” can take control, steal money, or install malware. It starts with a scary pop-up, an unexpected call claiming to be Microsoft or Apple, or a fake security alert. The losses are not small: the FBI reports victims lose over $1B a year to tech- and customer-support fraud, and older adults are hit hardest.

How it works

1. The lure. A full-screen browser warning with an alarm and a “support” number, or a cold call about a “virus” or “suspicious login.”
2. The access. They talk you into installing remote-access software so they can “fix” the problem — and now they can see your screen and files.
3. The theft. They show you fake “evidence” of hacking, then charge for fake repairs, or stage a fake “refund” that tricks you into sending money or buying gift cards.

How to tell it is fake

• Real software never locks your screen with a phone number to call.
• Microsoft, Apple, and your bank do not cold-call about viruses on your personal computer.
• No legitimate company asks for payment in gift cards, wire, or crypto, or for remote access to issue a refund.
• Urgency and fear are the tools — a real issue can wait for you to verify independently.

If you already let them in

1. Disconnect the device from the internet and power it off.
2. From a different trusted device, change your email password first, then bank and other key accounts; turn on two-factor authentication.
3. Call your bank if you paid anything or shared card details, and dispute charges.
4. Clean the machine with trusted security software or a reputable local technician.
5. Report at ic3.gov and reportfraud.ftc.gov.

If the intruder reached real accounts or money, account compromise recovery covers locking an attacker out, and elder fraud investigation helps when an older relative was the target.

See also: Scam & Fraud Recovery Help — the hub that maps every scam type and the free reporting steps.

Related services

• Elder Fraud Forensic Investigation
• Account Recovery After Compromise