Tech Support Scams
Security & Fraud
What to know and what to do
Tech support scams are designed to scare you into acting fast. They often look like urgent alerts or sound like official phone calls, but their goal is simple: to steal your money or personal information. Knowing the red flags can help you stop a scam before real damage is done.
Common Tech Support Scam Signs
- Fake antivirus pop-up claiming your device is infected
- A virus alert pop up keeps coming up with a phone number to call
- A tech support scam phone call you didn’t request
- Requests to download software, give remote access, or transfer your money to “protect” it
- Fake invoices and subscription renewals for services you never signed up for
Remember: if you didn’t ask for help, it’s likely a scam.
Legitimate tech companies won’t contact you by phone, email, or text message to tell you there’s a problem with your computer. And real security pop-up warnings and messages will never ask you to call a phone number.
How Do I Stop a Scam Pop-up?
- Close the browser or restart your device
- Disconnect from the internet temporarily
- Run a scan using trusted antivirus software
- Clear your browser cache and cookies
- Do not call the number or click any links
These steps usually stop scam pop-ups without causing harm.
What Do I Do After a Tech Support Scam?
- Contact your financial institution immediately
- Call 800-727-3328 Option 2 to reach Broadview’s Fraud Team
- Change passwords for affected accounts
- Remove any remote access software you installed
- Monitor your accounts for unusual activity (alerts can be set in digital banking)
Acting quickly can limit financial loss.
How Do I Report a Tech Support Scam?
- Report it to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
- If money was lost, notify your financial institution
- Call 800-727-3328 Option 2 to contact Broadview’s Fraud Team
