Tech Support Scams: How to Protect Yourself

Tech support scams are one of the fastest-growing types of fraud in the United States, and they disproportionately target older adults. At Computer Corner in Leesburg, FL, we regularly help customers who have fallen victim to these schemes. Understanding how they work is your best defense.

How Tech Support Scams Work

Tech support scams typically begin in one of three ways: a pop-up warning appears on your screen claiming your computer is infected, you receive an unsolicited phone call from someone claiming to be from Microsoft, Apple, or your internet provider, or you accidentally call a fake support number found through a web search.

The scammer's goal is to gain remote access to your computer. Once inside, they may install malware, steal passwords and financial information, lock your files, or convince you to pay hundreds of dollars for fake "repairs." These calls can be extremely convincing — scammers use official-sounding company names, fake credentials, and technical jargon to build trust.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Unsolicited contact: Microsoft, Apple, and legitimate tech companies will never call you out of the blue about a problem with your computer.
• Scary pop-up warnings: Real security alerts from Windows or macOS never include a phone number to call.
• Requests for remote access: Never give anyone remote access to your computer unless you initiated the call to a company you trust.
• Gift card payments: No legitimate company will ask you to pay for tech support with gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
• Pressure to act immediately: Scammers create a sense of urgency to prevent you from thinking clearly or asking someone else first.

What to Do If You're Targeted

If you receive a suspicious call or pop-up, the safest thing to do is hang up or close your browser. If you can't close the pop-up, restart your computer. Do not call the number displayed. Do not give anyone remote access to your computer.

If you've already given someone remote access, disconnect from the internet immediately by unplugging your ethernet cable or turning off WiFi. Change your passwords from a different device. Check your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized charges. Contact your bank if you made any payments.

What to Do If You've Already Been Scammed

If a scammer had access to your computer, there's a real chance malware was installed. Bring your computer to Computer Corner for a thorough security assessment. We'll check for remote access software, malware, keyloggers, and any other tools that may have been left behind. We'll remove everything, change any saved passwords stored in your browser, and help you secure your accounts.

You should also report the scam to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and to your state attorney general's office. While recovery of any money paid is rarely possible, reporting helps authorities track and shut down these operations.

Protecting Yourself Going Forward

• Never call a tech support number from a pop-up or search result — go directly to the company's official website.
• Use a reputable, paid antivirus — it will catch many scam-related threats before they cause damage.
• Keep your browser and operating system updated — security patches close the holes scammers exploit.
• When in doubt, bring your computer to a local, trusted tech shop before taking any action.