Tech Support and Refund Scams
Recognize and avoid fake tech support calls, pop-ups, and refund scams.
Last updated: February 2026How These Scams Work
Tech support and refund scams trick you into giving criminals access to your computer and money. They combine fake warnings, social engineering, and remote access tools to steal from victims.
Tech Support Scams
Scammers contact you claiming to be from Microsoft, Apple, or your internet provider:
- Fake pop-ups: Alarming messages claiming your computer is infected
- Cold calls: Someone calls claiming they detected a problem with your computer
- Search result traps: You search for tech support and call a fake number
They ask you to install remote access software, then "find" fake problems and demand payment to fix them.
Refund Scams
Scammers claim you are owed a refund and need to process it:
- They say a service is being discontinued and you deserve money back
- They claim they accidentally refunded too much and need you to return the excess
- They connect to your computer and manipulate your bank website to show fake balances
- They pressure you to send money via gift cards or wire transfer to "fix" the overpayment
Warning Signs
- Unsolicited contact about computer problems you did not report
- Urgent warnings with phone numbers to call
- Requests to install remote access software (TeamViewer, AnyDesk, etc.)
- Pressure to pay immediately
- Requests for payment via gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency
- Threats that your computer will be locked or data will be lost
- Claims of accidental overpayment requiring you to send money back
What Legitimate Companies Do
- Microsoft, Apple, and Google will never call you about computer problems
- Real companies do not ask for payment via gift cards
- Legitimate refunds go back through the original payment method
- Real tech support does not cold-call customers
How to Protect Yourself
- Hang up on unsolicited tech support calls
- Close fake warning pop-ups by force-quitting your browser
- Never give remote access to someone who contacted you
- Look up official support numbers yourself, do not call numbers in pop-ups
- If in doubt, ask a trusted friend or family member
If You Have Been Targeted
- Hang up or close the browser immediately
- If you gave remote access, disconnect from the internet and run a security scan
- If you gave payment info, contact your bank immediately
- Change passwords for any accounts accessed during the session
- Report the scam to the FTC and local authorities
Key Takeaways
- Real tech companies do not cold-call about problems
- Never call numbers shown in pop-up warnings
- Never give remote access to someone who contacted you
- Gift cards are for gifts, not payments
- Refunds do not require you to send money back
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