SCARS Institute’s Encyclopedia of Scams™ Published Continuously for 25 Years
Tech Support Scams
A Type Of Relationship Scam
Tech support scams are one of the types of scams in which scammers trick people into believing that their computer or other electronic device has a serious problem and then offer to help fix it for a fee. These Tech Support Scams typically involve unsolicited phone calls, pop-up ads, or emails claiming to be from reputable tech companies such as Microsoft or Apple.
The Tech Support Scams scammer poses as a tech support representative from a reputable company and claims that your computer is infected with a virus or malware. They then ask for remote access to your computer or ask for payment to fix the problem.
The scammers will often use scare tactics to make the victim believe that their computer is infected with viruses or malware, or that their personal information has been compromised. They may ask the victim to download software that will give them remote access to the victim’s computer or to provide sensitive information such as login credentials or credit card details.
Once the Tech Support Scams scammers have gained access to the victim’s computer or personal information, they may install malware or steal the victim’s identity and financial information for future fraudulent activities.
Scammers engage in tech support scams because they can be very profitable. These scams typically involve contacting individuals, often through unsolicited phone calls or pop-up messages on their computers, and claiming to be from a reputable technology company, such as Microsoft or Apple. The scammers then inform the individuals that their computer has been infected with a virus or malware and offer to help fix the issue for a fee.
Tech support scams are effective because they prey on people’s fear of computer viruses and their lack of technical knowledge. The scammers often use high-pressure tactics, such as threatening to delete important files or disable the computer, to convince the victims to pay for their services.
Once the scammers have gained access to the victim’s computer, they may install malware or steal sensitive information, such as usernames and passwords, credit card numbers, and other personal data. They may also use this information to commit identity theft or sell it on the black market.
It’s important to be cautious when receiving unsolicited phone calls or pop-up messages claiming to be from tech support – because these will be Tech Support Scams. Legitimate technology companies will never contact you in this manner to inform you of a virus on your computer. If you receive a suspicious message or call, you can contact the technology company directly to verify the legitimacy of the request. You can also use reputable anti-virus software to scan your computer for viruses or malware.
It’s important to note that legitimate tech companies will not initiate unsolicited phone calls or pop-up messages to offer technical support or ask for personal or financial information. If you receive a suspicious tech support call or message, do not provide any personal information or payment and instead contact the legitimate tech company directly to verify the authenticity of the request.
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Important Information for New Scam Victims
- Please visit www.ScamVictimsSupport.org – a SCARS Website for New Scam Victims & Sextortion Victims
- Enroll in FREE SCARS Scam Survivor’s School now at www.SCARSeducation.org
- Please visit www.ScamPsychology.org – to more fully understand the psychological concepts involved in scams and scam victim recovery
If you are looking for local trauma counselors please visit counseling.AgainstScams.org or join SCARS for our counseling/therapy benefit: membership.AgainstScams.org
If you need to speak with someone now, you can dial 988 or find phone numbers for crisis hotlines all around the world here: www.opencounseling.com/suicide-hotlines
A Note About Labeling!
We often use the term ‘scam victim’ in our articles, but this is a convenience to help those searching for information in search engines like Google. It is just a convenience and has no deeper meaning. If you have come through such an experience, YOU are a Survivor! It was not your fault. You are not alone! Axios!
A Question of Trust
At the SCARS Institute, we invite you to do your own research on the topics we speak about and publish, Our team investigates the subject being discussed, especially when it comes to understanding the scam victims-survivors experience. You can do Google searches but in many cases, you will have to wade through scientific papers and studies. However, remember that biases and perspectives matter and influence the outcome. Regardless, we encourage you to explore these topics as thoroughly as you can for your own awareness.
Statement About Victim Blaming
SCARS Institute articles examine different aspects of the scam victim experience, as well as those who may have been secondary victims. This work focuses on understanding victimization through the science of victimology, including common psychological and behavioral responses. The purpose is to help victims and survivors understand why these crimes occurred, reduce shame and self-blame, strengthen recovery programs and victim opportunities, and lower the risk of future victimization.
At times, these discussions may sound uncomfortable, overwhelming, or may be mistaken for blame. They are not. Scam victims are never blamed. Our goal is to explain the mechanisms of deception and the human responses that scammers exploit, and the processes that occur after the scam ends, so victims can better understand what happened to them and why it felt convincing at the time, and what the path looks like going forward.
Articles that address the psychology, neurology, physiology, and other characteristics of scams and the victim experience recognize that all people share cognitive and emotional traits that can be manipulated under the right conditions. These characteristics are not flaws. They are normal human functions that criminals deliberately exploit. Victims typically have little awareness of these mechanisms while a scam is unfolding and a very limited ability to control them. Awareness often comes only after the harm has occurred.
By explaining these processes, these articles help victims make sense of their experiences, understand common post-scam reactions, and identify ways to protect themselves moving forward. This knowledge supports recovery by replacing confusion and self-blame with clarity, context, and self-compassion.
Additional educational material on these topics is available at ScamPsychology.org – ScamsNOW.com and other SCARS Institute websites.
Psychology Disclaimer:
All articles about psychology and the human brain on this website are for information & education only
The information provided in this article is intended for educational and self-help purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for professional therapy or counseling.
While any self-help techniques outlined herein may be beneficial for scam victims seeking to recover from their experience and move towards recovery, it is important to consult with a qualified mental health professional before initiating any course of action. Each individual’s experience and needs are unique, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another.
Additionally, any approach may not be appropriate for individuals with certain pre-existing mental health conditions or trauma histories. It is advisable to seek guidance from a licensed therapist or counselor who can provide personalized support, guidance, and treatment tailored to your specific needs.
If you are experiencing significant distress or emotional difficulties related to a scam or other traumatic event, please consult your doctor or mental health provider for appropriate care and support.
Also read our SCARS Institute Statement about Professional Care for Scam Victims – click here to go to our ScamsNOW.com website.
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