Tech-support scam
A fraud in which criminals pose as Microsoft, Apple, or another tech company to convince victims their device has a serious problem, then extract money or install malware under the guise of fixing it.
Also known as: fake tech support, Microsoft scam, Apple support scam
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Tech-support scams typically begin with either an unsolicited phone call from someone claiming to be from 'Microsoft', 'BT', or another well-known company, or a scareware pop-up directing the victim to call a fraudulent number. The caller claims the victim's computer is infected, compromised, or about to have their account closed.
The victim is persuaded to install legitimate remote-access software (such as AnyDesk or TeamViewer), giving the attacker full control. The attacker then performs theatrical 'diagnostics', shows the victim alarming-looking (but normal) system files as 'evidence' of infection, and requests payment — often by gift cards or bank transfer — for a 'support plan' or 'virus removal'.
While the attacker has remote access, they may also steal files, install actual malware, or access banking credentials. Microsoft and Apple do not make unsolicited calls about your device.
Examples
- A pop-up appears saying 'WINDOWS DEFENDER ALERT — call this number immediately.' A caller then instructs you to install AnyDesk and pay £250 by iTunes gift cards for virus removal.