How to Recognize a Tech-Support Scam

← BackAugust 23, 2026

Unexpected urgency, remote-access requests, gift-card payment, and claims that only the caller can see a virus are strong warning signs.

Step-by-step checks

1. Pause the conversation

Legitimate support will allow you to verify who they are. Do not let urgency prevent independent checks.

2. Do not grant remote access

Do not install remote-control software or share a screen because of an unsolicited call, popup, message, or search advertisement.

3. Verify independently

Close the message and use the company’s official website, app, device documentation, or a number printed on a trusted statement.

4. Protect payment and codes

Never pay support with gift cards or cryptocurrency and never read out one-time sign-in codes. A code is normally proof that you—not the caller—are signing in.

5. Respond after exposure

Disconnect remote access, remove unknown tools, change affected passwords from a clean device, contact payment providers, and document what happened.

When to stop

If someone currently controls the device, disconnect it from the network and seek trusted in-person help rather than arguing with the caller.

What to tell an expert

Share the device model, operating system, exact symptom or error, when it began, what changed beforehand, and which checks you completed. Do not send passwords, one-time codes, encryption recovery keys, or unnecessary personal files.

Official reference

This Supportia guide was prepared with current official guidance as a factual baseline. Interface names can still vary by device and version. Open the official reference.

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