Tech-support scam

A tech-support scam is a fraud in which criminals pretend to be technical support from a company like Microsoft, Apple, your internet provider, your bank or an antivirus brand. They reach victims through fake browser pop-ups with phone numbers, cold calls, or emails about expensive subscriptions that will auto-renew "unless you call". They then claim your device is infected or that you are owed a refund, and ask you to install a remote access tool. Once in control, they steal money, install malware or invent a refund overpayment that you must "return". Genuine companies do not call unexpectedly, and real error messages never include a phone number.