Fake Tech Support Scams That Demand MoneyGram Transfers
Tech support scammers instruct victims to purchase MoneyGram money orders or initiate transfers to pay for fictional virus removal services, computer protection plans, or account reinstatement fees.
Part of: Fake Tech Support Calls
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
While gift cards dominate tech support scam payments, MoneyGram remains a significant vector — particularly for older victims who are more familiar with money order services than with digital payment apps. Scammers frame MoneyGram as the 'official payment method' approved by Microsoft, Apple, or the victim's bank for the fraudulent service being sold.
MoneyGram agents at retail locations are often the last line of defence for potential victims. MoneyGram has published training materials for agents to identify potential scam transfers, but not all agents follow the guidance or feel empowered to refuse suspicious transactions.
How this scam works on MoneyGram
A victim receives a pop-up or phone call warning that their computer is infected or their bank account has been compromised. The caller identifies as Microsoft, Apple, or a government agency. They walk the victim through 'diagnostic steps' on their computer to confirm the 'problem', then quote a fee for the fix or protection plan.
The victim is instructed to visit a nearby MoneyGram location — often at a grocery store or pharmacy — and send funds to a name and address provided by the scammer. They are coached to tell the MoneyGram agent the payment is for a legitimate service and to not reveal it is for computer support if asked.
Some scammers use the remote-access session they established during 'diagnostics' to monitor the victim and ensure they do not speak with the MoneyGram agent candidly.
Common red flags
- Technology support company insisting MoneyGram is the only accepted payment method for a repair or protection plan
- Caller coaching you on what to say to the MoneyGram agent and telling you to keep the reason secret
- Pop-up or phone warning about a computer infection that cannot be dismissed
- Remote access request from a 'Microsoft' or 'Apple' technician who appeared after an unsolicited contact
- Payment recipient is an individual's name rather than a verifiable company account
How to protect yourself
- Understand that legitimate technology companies never ask for MoneyGram payment for support
- Hang up any unsolicited call claiming your computer or bank account has been compromised
- If a MoneyGram agent asks about the purpose of a transfer, answer honestly — they may be trying to protect you
- Contact MoneyGram's fraud line at 1-800-926-9400 before completing any suspicious transfer
- Report the support call to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
How to report it
- Report to MoneyGram's fraud team at moneygram.com/fraud
- File a complaint with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov or call 1-877-382-4357
- Report to the FBI's IC3 at ic3.gov, particularly for cases involving significant losses
Frequently asked questions
Why do tech support scammers prefer MoneyGram over bank transfers?
MoneyGram offers near-immediate cash pickup at agent locations worldwide, making funds accessible to scammers before the victim realises the fraud. Unlike bank transfers, there is no receiving bank that might flag or freeze the transaction. Gift cards and crypto are more common, but MoneyGram is favoured for victims unfamiliar with those payment methods.