Is This a Tech Scam?

Scammers are getting sneaky. Use this guide to protect yourself from fake tech support calls, scary pop-ups, and other tricks.

Did Someone Call You About Your Computer?

If they said they were from Microsoft, Apple, or "Windows" — it's a scam. 100%.

These companies will never call you out of the blue. Not ever. Not for any reason.

If you're on the phone with them right now: hang up immediately. Don't let them talk you out of it.

Seeing a Scary Pop-up on Your Screen?

You know the ones — they fill your whole screen, make loud noises, and say things like "YOUR COMPUTER IS INFECTED!" or "CALL MICROSOFT IMMEDIATELY!"

Here's the truth:

Real virus warnings don't show phone numbers. Real virus warnings don't make scary sounds. Real virus warnings don't lock up your screen. If you see any of these things, it's a scam website trying to scare you.

What to do:

Don't call the number on the screen
Don't click anything on the pop-up
Press and hold the power button on your computer until it turns off
Wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on
The pop-up should be gone

Red Flags That Scream "SCAM!"

If any of these things happen, you're probably dealing with a scammer:

They called you first

Real tech companies don't cold-call customers about computer problems

They want remote access to your computer

They'll ask you to download software like AnyDesk or TeamViewer so they can "fix" things

They want gift cards as payment

No legitimate business asks for Google Play cards, iTunes cards, or Bitcoin

They create urgency and panic

"Your computer will be locked forever!" or "Hackers are stealing your data right now!"

They ask for banking information

To "refund" you or "verify your identity" — this is how they steal your money

The pop-up has a phone number

Real Windows warnings never include phone numbers

Already Let Someone Access Your Computer?

Don't panic, but do act quickly. Here's what you should do:

Disconnect from the internet — unplug your ethernet cable or turn off WiFi
Change your passwords — especially email, banking, and anything important (do this from a different device like your phone)
Call your bank — let them know what happened and watch for suspicious charges
Don't use the computer until it's been properly cleaned — the scammer may have installed malware

This happens to smart people all the time. These scammers are professionals. Don't be embarrassed — just take action to protect yourself.

Things Scammers Say

These phrases are almost always part of a scam:

"This is Microsoft calling about a problem with your computer."

"Your Windows license has expired and your computer will be locked."

"We've detected hackers on your network."

"Your computer is sending out viruses and we need to fix it."

"We need to refund you, but first I need access to your computer."

"Go to the store and buy gift cards to pay for the security software."

Real Tech Support vs. Scammers

Real Tech Support

You contact them first
They're local or have a physical address
They accept normal payments (cash, card)
They explain what they're doing
They don't rush you or create panic
They give you time to think

Scammers

They contact you first
They're "from Microsoft" (overseas call center)
They want gift cards or wire transfers
They won't explain what they're doing
They create urgency and fear
They pressure you to act now

Worried You Might Have a Real Problem?

If you're unsure whether your computer has a real issue or you just encountered a scam, I'm happy to take a look. I'll give you an honest answer — and if there's nothing wrong, I'll tell you that.

Call or Text: 854-204-7526

I'm a real person in Florence, SC — not an overseas call center.

Serving Florence, Darlington, Hartsville & the Pee Dee region of South Carolina