Tech support scams are on the rise in 2025, targeting people of all ages but especially older adults. These scams often begin with a pop-up warning, phone call, or email that appears to come from a trusted company like Microsoft, Apple, or your antivirus provider. The scammer claims your computer has a virus or that your online accounts have been compromised, then pressures you to act quickly to "fix" the problem. Their real goal? To gain remote access to your device, steal personal data, or demand payment for fake services.
This blog will help you recognize the red flags of tech support scams and show you how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
What Are Tech Support Scams? Tech support scams trick individuals into believing their computer has a security issue that only a "technician" can fix. The scammer may contact you directly or trigger a fake warning on your screen. Once they have your attention, they’ll guide you through steps to install remote-access software or convince you to pay for unnecessary or fake services.
Common Types of Tech Support Scams
- Pop-Up Warnings A full-screen alert appears while you’re browsing the internet, claiming your computer has been infected. It often displays a toll-free number to call immediately.
- Phone Calls from “Support” Scammers impersonate tech companies and claim your account or device has been compromised. They may spoof the caller ID to make it look legitimate.
- Email Alerts or Invoices A phishing email warns you of a security threat or charges you for a tech support plan you never purchased, prompting you to call or click a link.
- Remote Access Requests Once you engage with the scammer, they may ask you to install remote desktop software, giving them full control of your device.
- Fake Refund Scams After claiming to fix your computer, scammers say you’re owed a refund, then trick you into “accidentally” sending them money via Zelle, gift cards, or wire transfer.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Urgent warnings that your computer is infected or compromised
- Requests to install remote access software
- Demands for payment via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency
- Pop-ups or emails with poor grammar or unofficial branding
- Claims that your warranty or software license has expired unexpectedly
Real Examples of Tech Support Scams in 2025
- A 67-year-old Florida resident received a pop-up alert mimicking Microsoft support. After calling the number, the scammer took control of their computer and drained their online banking account.
- An email claiming to be from Norton Antivirus stated a $399 charge had been made. The victim called the listed number and was tricked into giving remote access, leading to identity theft.
- A scammer posing as Apple Support claimed a victim’s iCloud account was hacked and convinced them to buy $1,500 in Apple gift cards to “protect” their data.
How to Stay Safe
- Never call numbers from pop-up warnings. Legitimate tech companies don’t use scare tactics.
- Don’t give remote access to strangers. No reputable company will request control of your device without a verified support ticket.
- Verify charges independently. If you receive an invoice or payment notice, check your accounts directly, not through links or numbers in the message.
- Educate loved ones. Talk to older friends or family members who may be more vulnerable to these scams.
- Use antivirus and ad-blockers. These tools can prevent malicious pop-ups and phishing sites from loading.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
- Immediately disconnect your device from the internet
- Run a full antivirus scan
- Report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov
- Contact your financial institutions to freeze accounts and monitor for suspicious activity
- Reset passwords and enable two-factor authentication on all critical accounts
We Are Here to Help
At Connect Credit Union, we’re committed to helping our members stay safe and informed. If you’re concerned about identity theft or want to learn how to protect your personal information, visit our Identity Theft Protection Resources for prevention tips and recovery steps. And if you ever suspect suspicious activity, please don’t hesitate to contact us, we’re here to help.
Visit ConnectCU.org for more fraud prevention tips and financial security resources.