AARP Virginia Fraud Alert: Tech-Support Scams

Tech support is calling – but should you answer? One might think that a crime like the tech support scam, which has been around for over 15 years, might fade away, but it is more common than ever.

These scams start with an unsolicited phone call or a pop-up alert on your device, claiming to be from Microsoft, Norton, or another related company warning of grave problems. The goal is to persuade you to grant remote access to your device, after which they’ll claim to find something terrible. In reality, these criminals are likely trying to install malware, which enables them to steal personal information and account logins. They may also pressure you into paying for expensive (and fake) repairs or protection services.

If you receive an urgent phone call or a sudden, alarming pop-up, it’s almost certainly a scam. Don’t engage, and to rid your screen of the message, exit out of your browser or restart your device. Keeping your operating systems and security software up to date is an important way to keep real viruses and malware out.

Be a fraud fighter! If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam.

AARP Fraud Watch Network™ is a free resource for all. Learn how to proactively spot scams or get guidance if you’ve been targeted. Visit aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork or call our dedicated helpline to speak to a fraud specialist at 877-908-3360.

With about 1 million members in Virginia, AARP is the largest organization working on behalf of people age 50-plus and their families in the Commonwealth. To learn more about how AARP Virginia is working in your community, like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/aarpvirginia and follow @AARPVa on X at www.X.com/aarpva.

AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.