AI Scam Library
Fake tech support pop-ups A warning that’s the real danger.
By Jake Geise, founder of VUYSE · Updated October 2026 · Sources below
A loud warning fills your screen: your computer is infected, call this number now. It looks like it’s from Microsoft, Apple or your antivirus company. It isn’t. Real security warnings never ask you to call a phone number. Close the browser.
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How it works
- A pop-up, often with an alarm sound, says your computer has a virus or your account is hacked, and gives a number to call.
- The “technician” asks for remote access to your computer, then “finds” problems and charges you to fix them.
- In a newer version, they hand you to a fake bank or government agent who says your savings are at risk and must be moved.
- Another version is a fake renewal notice from Geek Squad, McAfee or Norton, followed by a fake “refund” you supposedly owe back.
Warning signs
- A pop-up or alarm telling you to call a phone number
- A caller who wants remote access to your computer
- Payment by gift card, wire or crypto for “repairs”
- Someone who then says your bank account or savings are in danger
- A “refund” that went wrong and you need to send money back
What to do
- Don’t call the number. Close the browser, or restart your computer.
- Never give remote access to someone who contacted you.
- If you’re worried, contact the company yourself using its official website or a number you know.
- Never move money because a tech support caller told you to.
New scams like this appear every week. Get the free 7-Day Kickstart and weekly Scam Watch alerts →
Older adults were five times more likely than younger people to report losing money to tech support scams, according to the FTC.
$1 billion
Reported lost to tech and customer support scams by older Americans in 2025.
Source: FBI: 2025 Internet Crime ReportIf you already paid or clicked
Call your bank or card company to reverse the charges. If you gave remote access, update your security software, run a scan, and change your passwords, starting with email. Then report it.
It’s not your fault. These are professionals, and they fool smart people every day. Acting fast is what matters.
Where to report it
- ReportFraud.ftc.gov: the Federal Trade Commission
- ic3.gov: the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, whatever the amount lost
Need help? Call the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311 (1-833-FRAUD-11), or the free AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline at 877-908-3360.
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