Tech support scams
A frightening pop-up fills the screen with alarms and a phone number, or somebody calls claiming to be from Microsoft or Apple.
Red flags
If you hear or read any of these, stop and check with someone.
- A full-screen warning with a countdown, a siren sound or a number to call immediately
- You are told not to switch the computer off or you will lose everything
- They ask you to install software so they can "take a look"
- They open a plain black window full of scrolling text as proof of infection
- The fix costs money, and they want it now
What to do
- Close the browser. If it will not close, hold the power button until the machine switches off, then start it again.
- Never let a stranger control your computer remotely.
- Real companies do not call you about a virus. They have no way of knowing you have one.
- If you already gave them access, disconnect from the internet, run your own security software and change your passwords from a different device.
- If you paid by card, call your bank and ask them to reverse the charge.
The pop-up is a web page, not your computer
That is the whole trick. A page can be made to look like a system alert, play a siren and cover the screen. It has no idea what is on your machine and no way to find out. Closing the browser removes it entirely.
Switching the computer off does not damage anything, and you will not lose your files.
What the scrolling text is
The black window with lines of text racing past is a standard part of every computer, used by technicians for ordinary work. Anybody can open it. It is being shown to you because it looks alarming, not because it means anything.
Why remote access is the real danger
Giving somebody control of your screen is not like letting them look over your shoulder. They can open your bank account, install anything they like and stay long after the call ends. This is the step that turns a nuisance into a serious loss.
Last updated Sep 7, 2026, 5:02 PM. Free to print and hand out. No permission needed.