The biggest tech support scam signs are a phone call you did not ask for, a pop-up with a phone number, and someone rushing you to pay or let them into your computer. Real companies like Microsoft and Apple do not call you out of the blue to say your computer has a problem. If you think you have been targeted, you can still protect yourself, and this guide shows you how.
These scams are very common. They fool smart, careful people every day. If it happened to you, you have nothing to be ashamed of. What matters is what you do next.
Quick answer
- Microsoft, Apple, and other real companies do not call you out of the blue.
- A pop-up that shows a phone number and says “call now” is a red flag.
- Never let a stranger into your computer or pay with gift cards.
- If you already let someone in: disconnect from the internet, do not pay, call your bank if you paid, then call a trusted pro.
What is a tech support scam?
A tech support scam is when a stranger pretends to be from a big tech company or a “help desk.” They say something is wrong with your computer. Then they try to get money from you, or get into your computer so they can take your information.
They usually reach you in one of three ways:
- A phone call. Someone calls and says they are from Microsoft, Apple, Windows, or your internet company.
- A pop-up. A scary message appears on your screen with a phone number to call.
- An email or text. A message says your account has a problem or that you were charged for something.
The warning signs
1. They contacted you first
This is the most important sign. Real tech companies do not call you out of the blue. Microsoft will not call you. Apple will not call you. If someone calls and says they “noticed a problem” on your computer, hang up.
2. A pop-up shows a phone number
A real warning from your computer will not tell you to call a phone number. Fake pop-ups often:
- Fill the whole screen and will not close.
- Make loud beeping or a voice talking.
- Say your computer is “locked” or “infected.”
- Use logos that look like Microsoft or Apple.
A pop-up with a phone number is a red flag every time. Do not call it.
3. They rush you
Scammers want you to act before you have time to think. They may say your bank account is at risk, or your computer will stop working in minutes. A real company will give you time.
4. They want to get into your computer
They may ask you to download a program or go to a website so they can “see your screen.” This gives them control of your computer. Only allow this with a company you contacted yourself and trust.
5. They ask for unusual payment
Be very careful if anyone asks you to pay with:
- Gift cards
- Wire transfers
- Cryptocurrency (online digital money, like Bitcoin)
- Cash sent in the mail
Real businesses do not ask for payment this way.
6. They say they owe you a refund
A common trick is a call or email saying you are owed a refund. Then they “accidentally” send too much and ask you to send the extra back. This is a scam.
7. They ask you to keep it secret
If someone tells you not to tell your family or your bank, that is a sign something is wrong.
What to do if you see a scary pop-up
- Do not call the number.
- Try to close the window by clicking the X in the corner.
- If it will not close, hold down the computer’s power button until it turns off.
- Wait a minute, then turn it back on.
- If the pop-up comes back, ask a trusted pro to take a look.
What to do if you already let someone in
Do not panic. Acting quickly can make a big difference. Follow these steps.
- Disconnect from the internet right away. Unplug the internet cable from your computer, or turn off Wi-Fi. If you are not sure how, simply turn the computer off. This cuts off the scammer.
- Do not pay anything. If they call back, hang up. Do not send money, gift cards, or bank details.
- Call your bank if you paid or shared bank details. Use the number on the back of your card. Tell them what happened. They may be able to stop the payment.
- Change your passwords. Start with your email and bank. Use a different device you trust, like your phone.
- Call us. The scammer may have left harmful programs on your computer. We can check it, clean it up, and help you feel safe again.
How to protect yourself going forward
- Hang up on anyone who calls about your computer out of the blue.
- If you are worried, look up the company’s real phone number yourself and call them.
- Talk with family about these scams. Sharing helps everyone.
- Keep your computer updated and use good antivirus.
Our remote support plans include antivirus, a VPN (a tool that helps keep your internet connection private), and regular tune-ups. Plans range from $29.99 to $99.99 a month, with family plans for up to 5 devices.
When to call a pro
If you let a stranger into your computer, or you keep seeing fake pop-ups, a pro can help. At AA Computer Help, we offer virus and scam cleanup in three ways:
- In-home help across Greater Hartford and 80+ Connecticut towns.
- Remote support that is built to be safe. You start the session yourself. You see everything we do on your screen. You can end it anytime. And we never call you unprompted, so if someone calls saying they are us, it is not.
- Mail-in repair if that is easier for you.
Every job comes with a 30-day workmanship guarantee. We are open 7am to 11pm every day at 430 New Park Ave in West Hartford.
Call 203-340-4198 or book an appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Will Microsoft or Apple ever call me about a virus?
No. They do not call people out of the blue about problems on their computers. If you get a call like this, hang up.
I clicked on a pop-up but did not call. Am I okay?
Probably, but it is smart to restart your computer and run a virus scan. If the pop-up keeps coming back, have someone you trust check it.
How can I tell if a remote support company is real?
A real company only connects when you reach out to them first. You should start the session yourself, see everything on your screen, and be able to end it whenever you want.
