Threat Deep Dive: The Fake Tech Support Call Scam
It's Tuesday, which means we're taking one scam type and looking at it properly. This week: the fake tech support call.
You've probably heard of it. Someone rings you out of the blue, says they're from Microsoft, Apple, BT, or your broadband provider, and tells you your computer is infected. Sometimes it starts with a pop-up on your screen with a loud warning and a number to ring.
What they're really after
The caller has two goals. First, they want remote access to your computer, usually by getting you to install a small piece of software. Second, they want your bank details or a payment to 'fix' the problem.
Once they have remote access, they can look through your files, install malware, or even open your online banking while you watch. Some will move money while pretending to run a virus scan.
The one rule that stops it
No genuine company will ever cold-call you to say your computer has a virus. Not Microsoft, not Apple, not BT. If someone rings you with that line, it's a scam.
If you're unsure, hang up and ring the company back on a number you've looked up yourself, from your bill or the official website. Never use a number the caller gives you.
If you've already let them in
Act quickly. Disconnect from the internet, run a full antivirus scan, and change your important passwords from a different device. If you shared bank details, ring your bank straight away using the number on your card.
The takeaway
Hang up on cold calls about viruses. Check any number independently. And if you're ever flustered, talk to someone before you act. Scammers rely on you being rushed.
Related reading