Tech support scam checker

Tech Support Scam Checker: How to Spot and Report It

Tech support scams pretend your computer, phone, browser, or account is infected or locked. The alert may use Microsoft, Apple, Google, or antivirus branding and tell you to call a number right away.

Once you engage, the scammer may ask for remote access, payment, gift cards, banking login, or identity details. A real security alert will not require you to call a random number from a pop-up.

Analyze this tech alert Read FAQ

Quick answer

Fake support alerts turn fear into remote access

A tech support scam often uses alarming pop-ups, fake error codes, loud warnings, phone numbers, remote access tools, payment demands, or claims that your bank account is at risk.

Free scam check

Paste the pop-up text, phone number, or support message

The sample below shows a fake Microsoft-style support alert. Replace it with the exact warning or chat message you saw.

Sample loaded

Typical red flags

Tech support scams use fear and fake authority to make normal verification feel dangerous.

  • Pop-up says your computer is blocked, infected, or under legal warning.
  • The alert tells you not to close the page or restart the device.
  • A phone number appears inside a browser warning.
  • They ask you to install AnyDesk, TeamViewer, UltraViewer, or another remote access tool.
  • They ask for gift cards, wire transfers, crypto, or payment for a fake cleanup.
  • They ask you to log in to bank accounts while they can see your screen.
  • The caller claims to be Microsoft, Apple, your ISP, or antivirus support without proof.

What to do if you already fell for it

Disconnect remote access and protect accounts before continuing the conversation.

  • Disconnect from the internet and close the remote access session.
  • Uninstall remote access apps the caller told you to install.
  • Run a scan with trusted security software from the official vendor.
  • Change passwords from a clean device, especially email, bank, and Apple or Microsoft accounts.
  • Contact your bank immediately if you paid or logged in while screen sharing.
  • Save phone numbers, receipts, screenshots, and remote access app names.
  • Report the scam to the impersonated company and your local fraud authority.

Example: fake blocked computer alert

Input

Your computer has been blocked due to Trojan spyware. Call Windows Support immediately.

What to notice

  • The warning uses fear and claims the device is blocked.
  • A browser page should not be trusted as Microsoft support.
  • Calling the number can lead to remote access and payment pressure.

Tech support scam FAQ

Does Microsoft or Apple show phone numbers in pop-up virus alerts?

Legitimate security notices generally do not tell you to call a random number from a browser pop-up. Use official support channels from the company website.

Is remote access always a scam?

No, but you should only allow it when you initiated support with a verified provider and understand exactly what they can see and control.

What if I gave remote access but did not pay?

Disconnect, uninstall the tool, run a trusted security scan, and change important passwords from a clean device.

Can I just close the browser tab?

Yes. If the warning is only a browser pop-up, closing the tab or browser is usually safer than calling the number or following the instructions.

What should I paste into ScamSpot?

Paste the warning text, phone script, chat message, support email, or payment demand. Do not paste passwords or security codes.