Scam types / Tech support scams
Tech support scams
'Microsoft' or 'Apple' calling about a virus — a pretext to get remote access to your computer.
1,027 complaints in this category in our database, sourced from FTC/FCC filings and community reports. Updated daily.
How it works
Tech support scammers claim your computer is sending errors or is infected, then ask to install remote-access software so they can 'fix' it. Once inside, they stage fake problems, charge hundreds for phantom repairs, or access your online banking directly. Older adults are disproportionately targeted and losses per victim are among the highest of any phone scam.
Microsoft, Apple, and your internet provider do not monitor your computer and will never call about a virus. Unsolicited calls about your device's health are fraudulent, categorically.
If you get one
- Never install software or grant remote access at the request of an inbound caller.
- If they got access, disconnect the machine, change passwords from another device, and call your bank.
- Report the number — these operations reuse callback numbers for days at a time.
Most-reported tech support scams numbers
- +1 866 685 090836 reports · 3 days agoSuspicious
- +1 888 382 122261 reports · 4 days agoSuspicious
- +1 877 556 9255171 reports · 3 days agoSuspicious
- +1 833 643 002415 reports · 4 days agoSuspicious
- +1 617 675 44449 reports · 4 days agoSuspicious
- +1 800 266 227824 reports · 3 days agoSuspicious
- +1 877 763 98104 reports · 4 days agoSuspicious
- +1 650 215 56413 reports · 2 days agoSuspicious
- +1 888 266 227839 reports · 2 days agoSuspicious
- +1 650 203 000051 reports · 1 day agoSuspicious
- +1 352 294 81783 reports · 10 days agoSuspicious
- +1 629 289 03733 reports · 10 days agoSuspicious
- +1 717 531 34742 reports · 14 days agoNeutral
- +1 530 738 93452 reports · 17 days agoNeutral
- +1 845 478 89954 reports · 18 days agoNeutral
- +1 650 215 10512 reports · 20 days agoNeutral
- +1 973 874 40232 reports · 20 days agoNeutral
- +1 979 859 27584 reports · 28 days agoNeutral
- +1 516 262 31802 reports · 1 month agoNeutral
- +1 210 333 34962 reports · 3 days agoSuspicious
Rankings reflect complaint and report volume; entries are community and public-agency data, not verified facts.
Got a call like this?
Look up the number — then leave a report to warn the next person.