Is the Microsoft Support Scam real or a scam?

This is a confirmed scam. Do not click any links, do not provide personal information, and do not send money. This is a tech support scam that impersonates Microsoft.

What should I do if I received the Microsoft Support Scam?

Do not respond or click any links. Block the sender, report the message as spam, and delete it. If it came via text message, forward it to 7726 (SPAM).

What if I already fell for the Microsoft Support Scam?

Change your passwords immediately, contact your bank if you shared financial information, place a fraud alert on your credit, and file a report with the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

How do I report the Microsoft Support Scam?

Report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov, and your local law enforcement. If it impersonated a specific company, report it to that company as well.

Microsoft Support Scam: Is It a Scam?

Very High Prevalence Type: Tech Support Impersonates: Microsoft

Yes, this is a scam. Do not click any links or provide personal information.

Scammers display fake virus warnings in your browser or cold-call you claiming to be Microsoft technicians. They try to gain remote access to your computer and charge you for fake repairs or steal your personal data.

How This Scam Works

A full-screen browser pop-up appears warning that your computer is infected and instructs you to call a toll-free number immediately. The pop-up may play audio alerts and prevent you from closing the tab. When you call, the 'technician' asks you to install remote access software like AnyDesk or TeamViewer. Once connected, they run harmless Windows tools like Event Viewer to show you fake 'errors' as proof of infection. They then demand payment, often $200 to $500, for a 'protection plan' or 'repair service.' While connected, they may also install actual malware or steal saved passwords and files.

Red Flags to Watch For

Pop-up warning that freezes your browser and plays alarm sounds
Message claims Microsoft has detected a virus on your specific computer
Phone number displayed prominently on the warning screen
Caller asks you to install remote access software
Demand for payment via gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency
Microsoft does not make unsolicited support calls

Example Scam Messages

** MICROSOFT WARNING ** Your computer has been infected with a Trojan virus. Your passwords, banking details, and personal files are at risk. DO NOT SHUT DOWN your computer. Call Microsoft Certified Technicians immediately: 1-888-555-0177 Error Code: MS-0x80072EE7 --- Phone call: 'Hello, this is John from Microsoft Windows Technical Department. We have detected malicious software on your computer that is sending error reports to our servers. I can help you fix this right now if you go to your computer.'

What to Do If You Received This

Close the browser tab (use Ctrl+Alt+Del and Task Manager if needed)
Do not call the phone number displayed
Clear your browser cache after closing
Microsoft will never call you unsolicited about computer problems
Hang up immediately if someone calls claiming to be Microsoft support

What to Do If You Fell For It

Uninstall any remote access software they had you install
Run a full scan with Windows Defender or reputable antivirus
Change all passwords stored in your browser
Contact your bank if you made a payment
Request a chargeback on your credit card for any charges
Have a trusted technician check your computer for malware

How to Report This Scam

Report to Microsoft at microsoft.com/reportascam
Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
File a complaint with FBI IC3 at ic3.gov
Report phone scams to the FCC at fcc.gov/consumers/guides/stop-unwanted-calls

Last updated: February 10, 2026