You get a phone call. Someone says your computer has been sending error reports — or maybe a pop-up appears on your screen warning that your system has been compromised. They say they’re from Microsoft, or your internet provider, or a well-known tech company. They sound professional. They sound urgent. And they ask to connect to your computer remotely to “fix the problem.”
This is a remote access scam — and it’s one of the most effective cons being run against everyday people right now.
How Remote Access Scams Work
Remote access scams follow a surprisingly consistent playbook. The scammer creates a sense of urgency — usually by claiming your computer is infected, hacked, or sending dangerous signals. Once you’re worried, they offer to help. All you have to do is install a program (often a legitimate tool like AnyDesk or TeamViewer) that lets them see and control your screen.
Once they’re in, the real damage begins. They may pretend to show you “problems” on your computer while quietly stealing passwords, accessing banking sites, or installing malware that lets them return later. Some scammers even convince victims to transfer money or purchase gift cards as “payment” for repairs.
The Warning Signs
Knowing what to look for can make all the difference. Watch out for:
- Unsolicited calls about your computer. Legitimate companies like Microsoft do not call you out of the blue about your computer’s health.
- Pop-ups with phone numbers. Real security warnings don’t ask you to call a number. If you see one, close your browser and don’t call.
- Pressure to act immediately. Scammers create urgency so you don’t have time to think or verify. Any “tech support” that insists you act right now is a red flag.
- Requests to install remote software. No legitimate company needs to access your computer remotely to solve a problem without your prior arrangement.
- Requests for payment via gift card. No real business accepts gift cards as payment for tech support. Ever.
What to Do If You’re Targeted
If you get a suspicious call or see an alarming pop-up, the safest steps are simple: hang up, close the window (or force-restart your computer if needed), and don’t give anyone remote access. Then call someone you trust — a family member, your IT provider, or a service like LurkAlert — to make sure your system is clean.
The best defense is knowing the scam before it finds you. Share this with someone you care about.
