Skip to main content

Cookies on BBB.org

We use cookies to give users the best content and online experience. By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to allow us to use all cookies. Visit our Privacy Policy to learn more.

Cookie Preferences

Many websites use cookies or similar tools to store information on your browser or device. We use cookies on BBB websites to remember your preferences, improve website performance and enhance user experience, and to recommend content we believe will be most relevant to you. Most cookies collect anonymous information such as how users arrive at and use the website. Some cookies are necessary to allow the website to function properly, but you may choose to not allow other types of cookies below.

Necessary Cookies

What are necessary cookies?
These cookies are necessary for the site to function and cannot be switched off in our systems. They are usually only set in response to actions made by you that amount to a request for services, such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in or filling in forms. You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but some parts of the site will not work. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable information.

Necessary cookies must always be enabled.

Functional Cookies

What are functional cookies?
These cookies enable the site to provide enhanced functionality and personalization. They may be set by us or by third party providers whose services we have added to our pages. If you do not allow these cookies, some or all of these services may not function properly.

Performance Cookies

What are performance cookies?
These cookies allow us to count visits and traffic sources so we can measure and improve the performance of our site. They help us to know which pages are the most and least popular and see how visitors move around the site. All information these cookies collect is aggregated and therefore anonymous. If you do not allow these cookies we will not know when you have visited our site, and will not be able to monitor its performance.

Marketing Cookies

What are marketing cookies?
These cookies may be set through our site by our advertising partners. They may be used by those companies to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant content on other sites. They do not store personal information directly, but are based on uniquely identifying your browser or device. If you do not allow these cookies, you will experience less targeted advertising.
      Country
          Country
          Latest News

          BBB Scam Alert: Tech support scams

          By Better Business Bureau. September 13, 2022.
          Phishing attack concept, computer hacker using fake website to steal login credentials, selective focus

          (Getty images)

          A tech support rep calls and offers to fix a computer bug you haven't even noticed, or a pop-up warning appears on the screen, instructing you to dial a number for help. In this con, scammers pose as tech support employees of well-known computer companies and hassle victims into paying for their "support."

          How the scam works

          A call comes through on the Caller ID, or you get a pop-up on the computer screen from someone claiming to be with tech support from a well-known software company. Microsoft, Comcast, Norton and Dell are all popular choices. The caller creates a sense of urgency—the computer is sending error messages, they've detected a virus, or your computer is about to crash, causing massive data loss!

          Rest assured. The tech support employee can fix the problem, but only if they're allowed to remote access the troubled machine. Once access is granted, the caller will often run a "scan" and claim the computer is infected with viruses. The caller offers to fix and repair the machine for a fee. That may not be the end of the scam. If you allow remote access, the scammer may install malware on your device. Malware often scans files for personal information, which scammers then use to commit identity theft. 

          Scammers may also lure people to find them by putting fake tech support numbers online.

          Tips to spot this scam

          • Never give control of your computer to a third party unless you are absolutely sure it is the representative of a computer support team with whom you initiated contact.
          • Legitimate tech support companies don't make unsolicited phone calls. A popular way for thieves to get in touch with victims is through cold calls. The callers often claim to be from a tech company. Scammers can spoof official-looking phone numbers, so don't trust Caller ID.
          • Look out for warning screens: Nearly half of tech support scams begin with an alert on the victim's computer screen. This pop-up will have a phone number to call for help. Instead, disconnect from the internet and Wi-Fi by shutting off the device. Restart it and run an antivirus scan.
          • Be wary of sponsored links. When searching online for tech support, look out for sponsored ads at the top of the results list. Many of these links lead to businesses that scam consumers.
          • Avoid clicking on links in unfamiliar emails. Scammers also use email to reach victims. These messages point consumers to scam websites that launch pop-ups with fake warnings and phone numbers.

          If you are a victim of a tech support scam

          • Contact the bank immediately to report the incident and describe exactly what happened.
          • Take the infected laptop, tablet, mobile device, or computer to a trusted local business and have it checked out.
          • Remove any software that authorized remote access to the device.
          • Change all passwords used to access bank accounts, social media and other websites that contain personal information. 
          • File a report with BBB Scam Tracker and with law enforcement authorities, such as the FTC

          For more information

          Also read BBB Scam Alert: Need tech support? Be careful which number you call.

          Learn how to protect yourself, go to "10 Steps to Avoid Scams," and sign up for scam alerts

          In Canada, please report tech support scams to the Canadian Fraud Centre.

          Learn more about BBB Accreditation Standards and BBB Standards for Trust.

          Read BBB's complete study with more details on who is behind tech support scams, how they are requesting money, and whom they are victimizing, as well as BBB's recommendations for dealing with the problem.