How to Spot Fake Canon IT Support Pop-ups and Remote Access Scams Targeting Australian Small Businesses

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: How to Spot Fake Canon IT Support Pop-ups and Remote Access Scams Targeting Australian Small Businesses. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

Fraudsters are targeting Australian small businesses with fake Canon IT support pop-ups and unsolicited phone calls. These scams often claim your printer is infected, your warranty has expired, or your network is at risk. The goal is to trick you into granting remote access to your computer or paying for unnecessary software. This guide explains how to identify these scams and protect your business.

Recognising the Warning Signs

Legitimate Canon support will never contact you out of the blue to request remote access to your computer. Be alert for these common tactics:

• Unexpected pop-ups claiming your printer has a virus or security issue
• Unsolicited phone calls from someone claiming to be a Canon technician
• Messages urging immediate action to avoid data loss or printer failure
• Requests to download remote access software such as AnyDesk, TeamViewer, or QuickSupport
• Demands for payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or unusual methods
• Poor spelling, grammar, or generic greetings in emails and pop-ups

Quick Fix Steps

1. Close the browser window or tab displaying the pop-up immediately.
2. Do not click any links, buttons, or phone numbers within the pop-up.
3. Hang up on any unsolicited call claiming to be from Canon support.
4. Do not install remote access software at the request of an unsolicited caller.
5. Do not provide credit card details, banking information, or remote access to your computer.
6. Run a full scan with your trusted antivirus software if you interacted with the pop-up.

Closing Stubborn Pop-ups Safely

1. Press Alt + F4 on Windows or Command + Q on macOS to close the active browser window.
2. If the pop-up will not close, open Task Manager on Windows using Ctrl + Shift + Esc, select your browser, and click End task.
3. On macOS, press Command + Option + Esc, select the browser, and click Force Quit.
4. When reopening your browser, decline any offer to restore previous tabs if the pop-up returns.

Verifying Genuine Canon Support

1. Visit the official Canon website directly by typing the address into your browser.
2. Navigate to the Support section from the main menu.
3. Look for your printer model and use only the contact details listed on the official Canon Australia website.
4. Check that the website URL begins with https:// and displays a padlock icon in the address bar.

Note: Canon will never call you unprompted to fix a printer issue. If in doubt, end the call and contact Canon using details from their official website.

Warning: Never grant remote access to your computer to someone who contacts you unsolicited. Once a scammer has remote access, they can install malware, steal passwords, and access sensitive business data.

What to Do If You Were Targeted

1. Disconnect the affected computer from the internet immediately.
2. Change passwords for any accounts accessed on that device.
3. Contact your bank if you provided payment details or made a transaction.
4. Report the incident to Scamwatch via the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.

Protecting Your Business

• Keep operating systems, browsers, and antivirus software up to date.
• Enable pop-up blockers in your web browser settings.
• Train staff to recognise and report suspicious pop-ups and phone calls.
• Only download printer drivers and software from the official Canon website.
• Use a reputable business-grade antivirus solution across all devices.

Still Having Issues?