Scam types
How do tech support scams work?
Scammers pose as Microsoft, Apple, or ISP support, push fear about viruses, then take remote control or payment. Real vendors do not cold-call to fix your PC—hang up and verify independently.
What this means for you
Unsolicited “virus” warnings and cold calls claiming to be tech support are classic scams. Do not grant remote access or pay.
Detailed explanation
Entry points include cold calls, browser lock pop-ups, and search ads for support numbers.
Once remote access is granted, scammers may steal passwords, install tools, or invent “refunds” that actually withdraw money.
Hang up, close the browser with Task Manager/Force Quit if needed, and contact the vendor only via official channels you look up yourself.
If you already gave access, revoke it, change passwords from another device, and review banking activity.
Warning signs and signals
- Unsolicited calls about your computer being infected
- Browser full-screen warnings with a phone number
- Requests for remote-access software or gift cards
- “Refund” flows that ask you to read back codes or move money
Practical verification steps
- Close scareware tabs without calling the number shown
- Use official support URLs from the vendor’s site
- Uninstall unknown remote tools
- If compromised, follow password and device after-incident steps
What Fraudly can and cannot verify
Fraudly cannot remove remote-access malware from your computer.
Contact official vendor support or a trusted technician for device cleanup.
Key trust concepts
Verified identity and trustworthy behaviour are different
Knowing who someone claims to be is not the same as knowing they will treat you fairly.
Urgent payment pressure is a social-engineering signal
Real organisations rarely demand immediate payment with threats or secrecy.
Related guides
Reviewed: 8 August 2026
This page is educational decision support. It is not legal, financial, or emergency advice.
