Remote access and tech support scams
Remote-access and tech-support scams use fake virus warnings or 'support' calls to take control of your device and money.
Quick answer: Real Microsoft/Apple/Google support doesn't cold-call or use popups, and never needs remote access.
How remote access and tech support scams work
A popup or call claims your device is infected or a refund is due, urging you to call or install remote-access software.
Once connected, the 'technician' opens your banking, 'finds' problems, and demands payment or moves money.
Genuine support never asks you to install AnyDesk/TeamViewer and share a code.
Common opening lines
- “Your computer is infected - call support now.”
- “Install this app so we can connect and fix your issue.”
- “Your password expires today - verify here.”
Example patterns
Sanitised examples - placeholders only, never real links or data.
Example only: WARNING: your computer is infected. Call support now at [phone number removed].
Example only: To fix your issue/refund, install AnyDesk and share the code.
What the scammer wants
- Remote control of your device
- Payment for fake 'support'
- Access to your banking
Where it spreads
Platforms: Phone, Email
Brands impersonated: Microsoft
Watch especially in: United States, United Kingdom, India
Red flags
- remote access
- fake authority
- urgency
- brand impersonation
What to do now
- Hang up or stop replying; real authorities don't work this way.
- Don't transfer money to 'prove innocence' or a 'safe account'.
- Save evidence, warn family, and report to your cybercrime authority.
What not to do
- Don't stay on threatening calls or follow remote instructions.
- Don't pay fines or 'clearance fees' via links, gift cards, crypto, or transfers.
- Don't share ID, Aadhaar/PAN, passport, or KYC details from a message link.
If you already responded
If you went further: if you clicked, don't enter anything and change any details you typed; if you entered card details, freeze the card with your bank; if you shared an OTP, change the password and enable app-based 2FA; if you paid, contact your bank or provider immediately; if you installed an app or gave remote access, disconnect, uninstall, and change passwords from a clean device.
How to verify safely
Real security teams don't cold-call or use popups; contact support only through the official app or website.
How to report
Report through official channels you find yourself - never a number or link from the message. Tell your bank or payment provider if money moved, and file with your national fraud or cybercrime body. Find the right links in the reporting directory. Open the reporting directory.
Watch for 'recovery' offers afterwards: anyone promising to get your money back for an upfront fee is running a second scam.
Related scam messages you can check
- Microsoft password expiry email Likely scam
- fake tech support popup Likely scam
- fake antivirus renewal email Likely scam
- remote access AnyDesk scam message Likely scam
- browser notification virus scam Likely scam
Related platforms
Related brand impersonation
Report in your country
Related red flags
Emergency guides
Related terms
Sources checked
- FTC Consumer Advice - Imposter scams
- FBI IC3 - Senior US officials impersonated in malicious messaging campaign (2025)
Frequently asked questions
Should I call the number in a virus popup?
No. Close the browser. The popup is fake; calling leads to remote-access and payment scams.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-05
This is general safety information, not legal, financial, or cybersecurity incident-response advice. We can't detect every scam or guarantee recovery - always verify through official channels.