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Digital security & AI

Fake tech support and virus pop-ups

Scare pop-ups claim an infection to sell fake repairs or obtain device access.

See response steps Share this in a workshop
A player wearing headphones at a computer during an esports event

If you have one minute

Pause, then verify independently.

A pop-up gives a number to call

Before paying

Do not call pop-up phone numbers

See verification steps →

If you paid or shared details

Close the page and end remote sessions

See response steps →

Start with these three signs

  • A pop-up gives a number to call
  • Support calls without a request
  • Requests gift cards or crypto payment

How the situation unfolds

  1. Contact

    Full-screen browser warnings or unsolicited calls.

  2. The lure

    Your system is at risk: call support now.

  3. The demand and outcome

    The warning leads you to a scammer who misrepresents normal system logs and charges for repairs.

Verify these things before paying

  1. Do not call pop-up phone numbers
  2. Seek support through verified channels
  3. Keep systems and security tools updated

Already engaged or paid?

  1. Close the page and end remote sessions
  2. Check the device with trusted tools
  3. Contact the payment provider if paid

Contact your payment provider and local police promptly. The responsible institution must confirm whether a payment can be stopped, disputed or returned.

Keep these records

Pop-up screenshot
Fake support number
Repair charges
Installed-software details

Keep originals and organise working copies. Never give strangers verification codes, banking passwords, private keys or seed phrases.

Original references

  • Federal Trade Commission (FTC)Publisher location：United States · EnglishOpen the original reference ↗https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-spot-avoid-and-report-tech-support-scams
  • Singapore ScamShieldPublisher location：Singapore · EnglishOpen the original reference ↗https://www.scamshield.gov.sg/i-want-protection-from-scams/learn-to-recognise-scams/tech-support-scams/

This page summarises public prevention guidance to help recognise methods. It is not an enforcement conclusion about a particular incident. Check the source page for its original title. Procedures and reporting routes vary by jurisdiction. Compiled October 2026.

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Smishing and fake logins

Billing, rewards, or login alerts lead to fake pages that capture passwords and payment details.

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QR phishing and swapped payment codes

A QR code is only a link or instruction; a replaced code can send you to a fake site or wrong payee.

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Remote-access and screen-sharing theft

Fake support requests remote software or screen sharing, exposing your banking activity.

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