Every week, thousands of people in the US, Canada, and UK receive phone calls from someone claiming to be from Microsoft, BT, Sky, or another trusted company, saying that your computer is infected or sending out error messages. These are always scams. Here is everything you need to know.
What the Scam Sounds Like
- "This is Microsoft support calling. We've detected serious errors on your computer."
- "Your internet service provider has flagged your PC for suspicious activity."
- "We're getting signals that your computer is infected with a dangerous virus."
- "This is a final warning. Your Windows licence has expired."
The caller sounds professional and may know your name or general location. This doesn't make them legitimate — scammers buy lists of personal information.
What They Want
The script usually leads to one or more of:
- Getting you to install remote access software so they can "fix" the computer (and while doing so, steal your files or install malware)
- Charging you for fake "repairs" or "licences"
- Getting your bank or card details directly
- Tricking you into buying gift cards and reading out the codes
What to Do When You Get the Call
- Hang up. You don't owe them a polite conversation.
- Don't press any buttons if it's an automated call — pressing anything often connects you to a human scammer or signals your number is active.
- Don't call back any number they leave.
- Block the number on your phone if possible.
- Report it: in the US to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov, in the UK to Action Fraud, in Canada to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Protecting Elderly Relatives
Older people are disproportionately targeted by these scams. Have a clear, calm conversation: "If anyone ever calls you about your computer, just hang up and call me." No legitimate tech company will ever call uninvited. Reinforce this message regularly — scammers are persistent and convincing.
If you or someone you know has already spoken to a caller and is worried, see our guide on what to do after a tech-support scam.