How to Spot a Computer Scam: Protect Yourself from Fake Tech Support

We get calls about this almost every week. Someone gets a scary pop-up saying their computer is infected, or they receive a phone call from someone claiming to be from Microsoft, Telstra, or the NBN. The message is always urgent: "Your computer is at risk. Let us connect remotely to fix it."

It's a scam. Every single time.

The Most Common Scam Tricks

The Fake Pop-Up

You're browsing the web and suddenly your screen is taken over by a full-page warning. It might say "VIRUS DETECTED" or "YOUR COMPUTER IS LOCKED." There's always a phone number to call.

What's really happening: It's just a website. Your computer isn't infected — the pop-up is the scam. Press Ctrl + W to close the tab, or Alt + F4 to close the browser entirely.

The Phone Call

Someone calls claiming to be from Microsoft, Telstra, or your internet provider. They say they've "detected a problem" with your computer and need remote access to fix it.

The truth: Microsoft will never call you. Telstra will never call you about your computer. If someone calls out of the blue about your computer — hang up.

The Remote Access Trap

If you do engage with a scammer, they'll ask you to install remote access software (like AnyDesk or TeamViewer) so they can "show you the problem." Once connected, they can access your banking, install malware, or lock your computer and demand payment.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Urgent language — "Act NOW or your data will be lost"
• Requests for remote access to your computer
• Asking for payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or bank transfer
• Claiming to be from Microsoft, Apple, Telstra, or the "NBN"
• Phone numbers in pop-up warnings
• Pressure to act immediately without thinking

What to Do If You've Already Been Caught

Don't feel embarrassed — these scams are sophisticated and catch thousands of Australians every year. Here's what to do:

1. Disconnect from the internet immediately (unplug the cable or turn off Wi-Fi)
2. Don't turn off your computer — we may be able to see what they did
3. Call your bank if you shared any financial details or made a payment
4. Report it to Scamwatch
5. Get a professional cleanup — we'll remove any malware or remote access tools they installed, change your passwords, and make sure your computer is safe

We Can Help

If you've been targeted by a scam — or you're not sure if something is legitimate — give us a call. We come to your home in South Brisbane and Logan, clean up the damage, and help you set up protections so it doesn't happen again.

There's no judgement. Just practical help to get you back on track.