Tech support scam.
In plain English
A tech support scam convinces you that your computer or device has a serious problem so you will pay for fake help or grant remote access. It starts with an alarming pop-up warning, a call claiming to be from a big tech company, or a scary email. The scammer then asks to connect remotely to fix it, which lets them plant real malware, or asks for payment for worthless services, sometimes later staging a fake refund to trick you into sending money back. Legitimate tech companies do not call out of the blue about viruses or place warnings with a phone number to call.
01Why it matters
Granting a stranger remote access to your device can expose everything on it, including banking, so knowing that unsolicited virus warnings and support calls are the scam keeps you from opening that door.
02The math, step by step
A full-screen pop-up warns of a virus and gives a number to call for support. The person who answers wants to connect to your computer remotely to fix it. That access lets them install real malware or reach your accounts. Closing the pop-up and never calling the listed number is the safe move.
03What this is NOT
It is not a genuine alert. Real operating systems and antivirus tools do not show pop-ups with a phone number to call, and real tech companies do not cold-call about viruses. A warning that urges you to call a number is the scam itself.
04Receipts
Every figure on this page is sourced to a primary document. Tap to open the original.