Tech Support Scam
Tech Support Scam
A scam that shows fake computer warnings to trick you into calling a bogus support line and stealing your money.
In Simple Terms
A tech support scam is a trick where a fake "virus infection" warning suddenly pops up on your screen while you're browsing the internet. If you call the phone number shown on screen, someone posing as a technician answers, demands money for "repairs," or has you install a remote access app. This can happen not just on computers but on smartphones too.
Behind the Name
The name blends "tech support" - the legitimate service that fixes computer problems - with "scam," since criminals pose as technical support staff to defraud victims. They twist the meaning of "support": regardless of whether a device is actually infected, they display fake virus warnings to panic users, then offer bogus "support" to exploit that fear.
Take a Closer Look!
A tech support scam is a scheme where, while you're browsing the internet, a fake warning - such as one claiming "your device is infected with a virus" or a blaring alarm sound - suddenly appears, pushing you to call a bogus support number shown on the screen.
In short, it's a trap that makes your computer or smartphone screen look like it's been taken over, sending you into a panic so scammers can charge you for support services that don't actually exist.
This trick often mimics genuine security warnings and copies the logos of real, well-known companies.
When a panicked user calls the phone number on screen, a criminal posing as a support representative claims it's "necessary to fix your computer" and has the victim download remote access software.
After pretending to remove the virus, the scammer then charges the victim expensive support fees or software costs through a credit card or e-money.
This warning screen appears regardless of whether the device is actually infected - it just uses tricks like your browser's full-screen mode to make it look like a genuine warning.
Because of this, closing the browser or restarting the computer usually makes the screen disappear.
Instead of panicking and calling the phone number displayed, you can prevent damage simply by closing the browser or taking similar steps.