Real Tech Support vs Fake Tech Support Scam
Distinguish genuine support from scammers who want remote access to your device.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Genuine tech companies don't cold-call about viruses or demand remote access. Here's the contrast.
Side-by-side comparison
| Real tech support | Fake tech support | |
|---|---|---|
| Contact | You contact them via official channels | They contact you, or a popup tells you to call |
| Remote access | Rare, only when you initiated support | Insists you install remote-access software |
| Banking | Never asks you to log into your bank | Asks you to log into banking while connected |
| Payment | Doesn't demand gift cards | Wants gift cards or odd payments for 'repairs' |
Common red flags
- Unsolicited 'your device is infected' contact
- Requests to install remote-access software
- Asked to log into your bank during the session
- Payment by gift card for 'repairs'
Verification steps
- Reach support only via the official website/app
- Never install remote-access tools for an inbound caller
- Close scary popups; a web page can't scan your device
What not to do
- Don't call popup numbers
- Don't grant remote access
- Don't pay by gift card
A safe response
Hang up or close the popup, and contact support only through official channels. Real tech firms don't cold-call about viruses or need remote access to your device.
Frequently asked questions
Does Microsoft or Apple call about viruses?
No. Major tech companies don't cold-call about device problems or request remote access. Treat any such contact as a scam.