Is a call saying my computer is sending error reports to Microsoft a scam?
Yes. This is the classic Microsoft tech support scam. Microsoft does not monitor individual computers and will never call you about errors.
Last reviewed: 1 August 2026
Explanation
Tech support scammers have impersonated Microsoft for over a decade. The call claims your computer is generating error reports, sending malware, or has been flagged by their servers. They direct you to open Windows Event Viewer — which shows routine errors in any computer — to 'prove' the problem exists. You are then asked to grant remote access via AnyDesk, TeamViewer, or a similar tool so they can 'fix' the issue. Once connected, they navigate to your banking or crypto accounts, install malware for future access, or demand payment for fake repairs by gift card or wire transfer. Microsoft's actual support is accessed by you contacting them — they never call unprompted.
The Event Viewer demonstration deserves particular attention because it convinces so many careful people. Every Windows computer logs routine warnings and errors constantly as part of normal operation, so the caller is guaranteed a screen full of alarming red icons to point at. It is a stage prop that works on any machine, which is exactly why the script relies on it.
These operations run from call centres working through phone lists, so receiving the call says nothing about your computer — many others received it the same day. If remote access was granted, assume everything on the machine was reachable: have it professionally checked or reset, change important passwords from a different device, and alert your bank if any financial accounts were open during the session.
Common red flags
- Unsolicited call claiming to be from Microsoft or Windows
- Directed to open Event Viewer and shown 'errors' as proof
- Asked to download remote access software
- Quoted a fee for repair payable by gift card or wire transfer
- Caller has an overseas accent but claims to call from a local Microsoft office
What to do now
- Hang up immediately
- If you gave remote access, disconnect from the internet and run a full security scan
- Change your passwords, especially banking and email
- Contact your bank if any financial details were seen or accessed
Frequently asked questions
What if the caller knew my name and computer type?
This information is often available from data breaches or public records. It does not mean the call is from Microsoft. The company never calls customers unprompted about error reports.
The 'errors' they showed me looked genuinely serious — were they?
No. Event Viewer warnings appear on every healthy Windows machine as part of routine logging. Interpreting them as infections is the core deception of this scam — it turns normal housekeeping entries into a crisis.