This scam pretends your computer is infected so you will pay to “fix” a problem that does not exist, or let a stranger into your device.
How it works. A loud pop-up freezes your screen: “Your computer is infected. Call Microsoft support now.” Sometimes there is a phone number and an alarm sound. If you call, a friendly “technician” asks to “remote in” to your computer, then claims to find serious problems and asks you to pay, often with gift cards, or to buy software you do not need. A newer version is the refund scam: they say they accidentally refunded you too much and you must send the difference back, often in gift cards.
Red flags:
- A pop-up or call says your device is infected and gives a number to call. Real virus warnings never do this, and Microsoft or Apple will never call you out of the blue.
- Someone asks to remotely connect to your computer.
- You are told to pay for support with gift cards, a wire, or cryptocurrency.
- Pressure not to hang up, and not to tell anyone.
A quick example. A pop-up with a siren says “Apple Security: do not turn off your computer, call this number.” Real security software does not lock your screen and beg you to call. It is a scam.
What to do:
- Do not call the number in a pop-up and do not click it.
- Close the pop-up. If the screen is stuck, shut the computer down and restart it, or hold the power button for a few seconds. That usually clears it.
- Never let someone you did not contact remote into your device, and never pay for “support” with gift cards.
- If you gave access or paid, do these in order. Disconnect from the internet. Uninstall any program the caller had you install, such as AnyDesk or TeamViewer, and remove any permission you gave them, or they can simply reconnect. Run your antivirus. Change your passwords from another device. Call your bank the same day and ask them to stop or reverse any payment. Then report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.