Tech-support pop-ups and calls

Check this example →

How it works

1. A full-screen pop-up with sirens, a countdown or a “locked” screen appears in your browser. Or someone calls claiming to be from a well-known tech company.
2. You’re told to call a number, or to let a “technician” help.
3. The “technician” asks you to install remote-access software, then “shows” you fake errors.
4. They charge you for an unnecessary fix, move money between your accounts to “refund” you too much, or steal your banking logins.

A variation is a surprise invoice for a subscription you never bought, with a number to call and cancel.

The tells

• Real operating systems and browsers never show a phone number in a warning.
• Anyone who contacts you first about a problem with your computer.
• A request to install AnyDesk, TeamViewer or similar.
• Payment by gift card, crypto or wire transfer.

What to do

• Close the browser (force-quit it, or restart the device). Don’t call the number.
• If you let someone connect: disconnect from the internet, uninstall the remote-access tool, and change your passwords from a different device.
• If you paid, or shared banking details: contact your bank at once.
• For a surprise invoice: check your real statements. If there’s no such charge, there’s nothing to cancel.

Where to report it