CallerScoop
High-severity category

Tech Support phone scams

Tech support scams claim to be from Microsoft, Apple, Google, or your internet service provider, warning that your computer is infected, hacked, or "leaking data". The scammer asks for remote-desktop access (TeamViewer, AnyDesk, etc.), then either installs malware, locks your files for ransom, or convinces you to pay for fake "cleanup" services. Microsoft and Apple do not cold-call you about virus warnings, ever.

This category at a glance

Numbers tracked823
Reports total0
Toll-free %6.1%
VoIP %0.0%
Peak hour

From real reports

Common opening lines you'll hear

Your Windows license has been compromised.

We have detected hackers using your IP address.

Please install this remote-access tool so we can clean your PC.

Live data

Recent tech support numbers

View all 823

Take action

What to do if you've been targeted

  1. 1

    Hang up. Never grant remote access to anyone who calls you out of the blue.

  2. 2

    If you already gave access, disconnect from the internet, run a malware scan, and change your passwords from a different device.

  3. 3

    Report to the FTC and to your bank if you paid anything.

Common questions

FAQ

How does CallerScoop classify a number as tech support?
We aggregate signals from FTC Do Not Call complaints, FCC consumer complaint data, and verified user reports. When multiple independent reporters describe a number with consistent script details, our scoring engine elevates the risk score and tags the dominant category.
Why does the caller ID show a number I trust?
Caller ID is trivial to spoof. Scammers can display any number — including a real bank or government line — to make the call look authentic. Treat caller ID as unverified, especially when the call demands urgent action.
How do I report a number I received?
Use our report form — it takes 30 seconds and helps protect others. For larger losses, also file with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and (if you lost more than $500) with the FBI IC3 at ic3.gov.

Got a tech support call?

Adding a report — even a short one — helps the next person recognize this scam in real time.

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