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How to Recognize a Tech Support Scam

Avoid callers and pop-ups falsely claiming your computer, account, or subscription has a problem.

Quick Answer

Do not give unsolicited callers remote access, passwords, verification codes, or payment; contact the company through its known official channel.

Step by Step

  1. Use the official settings or website for the account, device, browser, or service involved.
  2. Do not give unsolicited callers remote access, passwords, verification codes, or payment; contact the company through its known official channel.
  3. Review security and recovery settings after making the change.
  4. Keep recovery information and backups somewhere you can access if the primary device is lost.

If That Doesn't Work

  • Never give an unsolicited caller or message sender your password, recovery code, or one-time verification code.
  • If money or a critical account is at risk, use a known official contact method rather than contact information supplied in the suspicious message.