Microsoft Tech Support Scams: How to Spot Fake Calls and Pop-ups

Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: Microsoft Tech Support Scams: How to Spot Fake Calls and Pop-ups. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

Tech support scams are a growing threat to Australian businesses and home office users. These scams typically involve fraudsters claiming to be from Microsoft, warning you of a virus or security issue on your computer, and asking for remote access or payment to "fix" the problem. Microsoft will never proactively call you to offer unsolicited technical support. This guide explains how to spot fake calls and pop-ups and what to do if you encounter one.

Quick Fix Steps

1. Hang up immediately if you receive an unsolicited call claiming to be from Microsoft tech support.
2. Do not click on pop-up windows that claim your computer is infected or locked.
3. Never give remote access to your computer to someone you did not contact yourself.
4. Never provide credit card details or payment over the phone for unsolicited tech support.
5. If you have already granted access or paid, Open a Ticket immediately.

Detailed Instructions

How to Spot a Fake Tech Support Call

• Unsolicited contact: Microsoft will not call you out of the blue to report a problem with your computer.
• Urgent language: Scammers use pressure tactics, claiming your computer is at immediate risk or sending spam emails.
• Requests for remote access: They may ask you to install remote desktop software such as TeamViewer or AnyDesk.
• Payment requests: They may ask for payment via gift cards, wire transfer, or credit card to "fix" your device.
• Spoofed caller ID: The phone number may appear legitimate, but caller ID can be easily faked.

How to Spot a Fake Pop-up

• Browser pop-ups claiming your computer is infected, blocked, or at risk.
• Messages that include a phone number to call for "immediate assistance."
• Pop-ups that lock your browser and prevent you from closing the tab.
• Warnings that use the Microsoft logo but contain spelling or grammar errors.

What to Do If You See a Fake Pop-up

1. Do not call the phone number displayed in the pop-up.
2. Do not click any buttons within the pop-up window.
3. Close your browser. If it will not close normally, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
4. In Task Manager, select your browser (for example, Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome) from the list.
5. Click the End task button.
6. When you reopen your browser, decline any offer to restore previous tabs.
7. Run a full scan using Microsoft Defender or your installed antivirus software.

What to Do If You Already Spoke to a Scammer

1. Disconnect your computer from the internet immediately.
2. If you gave remote access, assume your device is compromised. Do not use it for banking or sensitive work until it has been checked.
3. Change your passwords from a different, clean device. Start with your email, Microsoft account, and banking passwords.
4. If you provided payment details, contact your bank or card provider immediately.
5. Open a Ticket so we can help secure your device and network.

How to Protect Yourself

• Only contact Microsoft support through official channels, such as the Support section of the Microsoft website.
• Keep your operating system and antivirus software up to date.
• Use a reputable ad-blocker in your browser to reduce the risk of malicious pop-ups.
• Enable pop-up blocking in your browser settings.
• Be sceptical of any unsolicited call, email, or message claiming to be from tech support.

Still Having Issues?