Tech Support Scam
Scammers pose as technical support (e.g. Microsoft or service providers) to trick victims into giving remote computer access or paying for fake help.
Channels
How It Works
In a tech support scam, fraudsters contact you under the guise of providing help for a non-existent problem. A classic example: you get an unexpected call from someone claiming to be from "Microsoft" or your internet company. They assert that your computer is infected with a virus or your account was hacked, and offer to "fix" it. Alternatively, you might see a scary pop-up on your computer saying "WARNING: Your PC is infected, call this number immediately!" When you call, you reach the scammer. Their goal is usually two-fold: gain remote access to your device, and/or get you to pay for a phony service. They often have the victim install a remote desktop tool (like TeamViewer or AnyDesk) so they can control the computer. Then they might show fake error messages or logs to convince you that your system is compromised. Finally, they'll request payment for a "clean-up" or a software license – typically via credit card or gift cards. In some cases, once they have remote access, they may install actual malware or directly navigate to your online banking and attempt theft. These scams disproportionately target older individuals or those less familiar with tech, but anyone can be caught off guard. Remember: legitimate tech companies don't proactively call you out of the blue about viruses, and real error messages don't include phone numbers.
Red Flags
- Unsolicited tech support call: You get a phone call out of the blue claiming to be from Microsoft, Apple, your ISP, etc. Legitimate companies don't monitor individual computers for issues and then call you.
- Scare tactics in pop-ups: A pop-up message or email that says "URGENT: Your computer is infected! Call 1-800-XXX or your data will be lost!" is virtually always a scam. Real error messages do not include phone numbers.
- Asking for remote access: The "technician" instructs you to download a remote control program. This is a major warning sign, especially if you didn't initiate a support session.
- Payment request via odd methods: They insist you pay via credit card over the phone, wire transfer or even gift cards. Reputable tech support never charges with gift cards.
- Pressure and urgency: The caller uses dire language ("If we hang up, your computer will crash"). High-pressure tactics are not how genuine support operates.
- Impersonation of well-known companies: The person might give a fake employee ID or send an email with logos. Emails might come from a non-official address.
Protect Yourself
- Hang up & verify: If you get an unsolicited call saying your computer has issues, hang up immediately. Independently find the company's official support number and inquire.
- Do NOT grant remote access: Never give control of your computer to someone who called you out of the blue. Only allow remote support when you initiated contact with a trusted provider.
- Use reputable security software: Have a good antivirus and anti-malware program. Keep your OS and browsers updated. Consider using a pop-up blocker.
- Educate yourself and others: Be aware of this scam's existence. Talk to family members (especially older ones) so they know Microsoft doesn't call people at home to fix viruses.
- Trust official channels: If you need tech support, initiate it via official websites or known phone numbers. Do not trust contact info given in an unexpected alert.
- Disconnect internet if necessary: If you realize something's wrong while they're connected, cut off your internet to break the remote session. Then secure your system.
- Use call screening: Consider using caller ID to screen unknown calls. Scammers often won't leave a detailed message.
Visual Examples
What To Do If You've Been Scammed
- Terminate the session: Disconnect immediately. Hang up the phone. If they have remote access, shut down your computer or disconnect from the internet.
- Document any info: Note phone numbers, names/IDs they gave, websites they directed you to. This helps in reporting.
- Scan and secure your computer: Use a trusted antivirus tool to run a thorough scan. Look for any software they installed and uninstall it.
- Change your passwords: Change passwords to critical accounts, especially if you entered any while they watched. Do this from a different device if possible.
- Contact your bank if payment was made: If you gave credit card info or bank details, call your bank/credit card company immediately. They can cancel your card and reverse charges.
- Report the incident: In Israel, report the scam to the police, especially if you suffered financial loss. Also notify the company that was impersonated.
- Inform others and seek support: Let family/friends know about the scam. If the scammers interacted with your PC, alert your workplace IT if any work data was on the machine.
- Learn for the future: Recognize the warning signs you missed. Perhaps implement call blocking for unknown international numbers.
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