SCAM AWARENESSTech support pop-ups
Tech support pop-up scams show a loud, scary warning in your web browser saying your computer is infected or locked. The pop-up tells you to call a phone number for help. The people who answer are scammers who want to charge you for fake repairs, get into your computer, or steal your banking information.
How this scam works
The pop-up may appear after you click an ad or mistype a website address. It can fill the whole screen, play an alarm or a recorded voice, and seem impossible to close. It often uses the logo of a well-known software or security company and warns you not to shut down your computer.
When you call, a friendly "technician" asks to connect to your computer to run a scan. They point to normal system messages and say they prove a virus. Then they sell you a costly repair or support plan, often asking for gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. Some claim to issue a refund, then say they sent too much and ask you to send money back.
What it can look like
EXAMPLE · NOT A REAL MESSAGEWARNING! Your computer has been blocked due to a security breach. Your files and banking information are at risk. Do not restart your computer. Call Support immediately at [number] to unlock your device.
Warning signs
- A pop-up that tells you to call a phone number
- Alarms, flashing screens or a recorded voice warning
- A warning not to restart or shut down your computer
- A "technician" who asks for remote access to your device
- Payment requests by gift card, wire, crypto or payment app
- An offer of a refund that then asks you to send money back
How to protect yourself
- Know that real security warnings don't ask you to call a phone number.
- Close the browser; if it won't close, restart your computer.
- Keep your operating system, browser and security software updated.
- Never let a stranger who contacted you connect to your computer.
- If you need help, contact a company using a number from its official website or your receipt.
If you already responded
- If you let them connect, disconnect from the internet and remove any software they had you install.
- Run a full scan with trusted security software, or have a local repair shop you choose check the computer.
- If you paid by card, call the number on the back of your card and dispute the charge.
- If you paid with gift cards, contact the card company right away using the number on the card.
- Change passwords you used on that computer, starting with email and banking, using a different, safe device.
- Report the scam to the FTC and the FBI's IC3.
Get step-by-step recovery help →
Where to report it
- FTC: how to spot, avoid and report tech support scams ↗
- Report fraud to the FTC ↗
- File a complaint with the FBI's IC3 ↗
Common questions
Is a pop-up saying my computer is infected real?
A pop-up that tells you to call a phone number is almost certainly fake. The FTC says real security warnings and error messages won't ask you to call. Close your browser or restart your computer. If you're still worried, run the security software you already have installed.
How do I get rid of a tech support pop-up that won't close?
Try closing the browser tab or the whole browser. If it won't close, restart your computer. When the browser reopens, don't restore the previous pages. Then clear your browsing history and run a scan with trusted security software to be safe.
Will a real tech company call me about a virus?
According to the FTC, legitimate tech companies won't contact you by phone, email or text to say there's a problem with your computer. If someone calls you out of the blue offering to fix a virus, hang up. Contact the company yourself using a number from its official website.