Fake Tech Support Scams
Virus pop-ups, Microsoft calls, and antivirus renewal frauds
The most important thing to know:
Microsoft, Google, Apple, and no computer company ever contacts you to say your device has a problem. They simply do not do this.
Pop-up on your computer or phone screen
What you might see or hear:
A large red message appears on your screen: "YOUR COMPUTER IS INFECTED WITH A VIRUS! Call our helpline immediately: 1800-XXXXX. Do not close this window or your data will be lost."
The truth:
This pop-up is itself the scam. Your computer is not infected. If you call the number, the scammer will ask to 'fix' your computer by controlling it remotely. They will then steal your banking passwords, or charge you thousands of rupees for fake software.
✅ What to do:
Close your browser. If the pop-up will not close, restart your phone or computer. Never call the number shown.
Phone call from 'Microsoft' or 'Windows'
What you might see or hear:
"Good afternoon, I am calling from Microsoft technical support. Our system has detected a serious virus on your computer. We need to help you fix it immediately to protect your bank account."
The truth:
Microsoft does not know your phone number. Microsoft never calls customers about viruses. This is a scammer pretending to be from Microsoft. They want you to install software that gives them control of your computer.
✅ What to do:
Say "Thank you, I will call Microsoft myself" and hang up. Do not let them guide you to any website or install any software.
Call from your 'antivirus company'
What you might see or hear:
"This is Norton/McAfee support. Your antivirus subscription has expired and your device is now unprotected. We can renew it right now for a special price. Please give us your card number."
The truth:
Antivirus companies send renewal notices by email or in the app — they never call you by phone. Giving your card number to this caller will result in fraudulent charges.
✅ What to do:
Hang up. If you want to renew your antivirus, go directly to their official website yourself — never use a link or phone number given to you by an unexpected caller.
If you already let them in
- 1Disconnect from the internet immediately. Turn off your Wi-Fi or mobile data.
- 2Do not use online banking until a trusted family member has checked your device.
- 3Call your bank and ask them to monitor your account for unusual transactions.
- 4If any money was taken, call 1930 immediately.
Need to report?
Call 1930 for cyber fraud help. For any technical help with your device, ask a trusted family member rather than any unknown caller.
📞 1930