A real security warning never asks you to call a phone number. If a pop-up or caller says your computer has a problem and wants remote access or payment, it is a scam. The FTC says to update your security software, run a scan, and get help from a company you already trust.
How the scam works
The FTC describes a common script:
- A fake pop-up warns of a problem and urges a call, or a caller claims to be a technician from a well-known company.
- On the phone, they ask for remote access, claim to find malware, and offer to remove it for a fee.
- They demand payment by gift card, wire or bank transfer, cryptocurrency or payment app, all hard to reverse.
Variants include a second caller posing as a government official who says your identity is linked to a crime and urges you to move money to protect it. The FTC states that government workers never demand payment or money transfers. Another variant is a fake subscription renewal using the names of well known security brands. The scammer then "refunds" too much and asks for the difference back.
What to tell relatives
Short, memorable rules help more than long explanations:
- A warning that asks you to call a number is fake. The FTC says real security pop-ups never ask that.
- Tech companies do not phone, email or text about computer problems.
- Nobody legitimate asks for gift cards.
- Hang up and call a family member before doing anything.
Write the rules on a card beside the computer.
Setting things up in advance
- Install updates automatically; see automatic updates for family devices.
- Agree who the relative should call first.
- If you are worried about the computer, the FTC says update security software and run a scan, and use a company or store you already trust.
If it already happened
The FTC advises changing any passwords you gave the scammer, including on other accounts where you reused them, and following its guidance for payments, shared personal information or remote access. Report the scam at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Do it without blame. Embarrassment is the main reason victims stay quiet, and quick reporting limits the damage.
Quick check
Does a real warning ever show a phone number to call?
The FTC says real security pop-up warnings and messages will never ask you to call a phone number.
Can a government worker demand a money transfer?
No. The FTC says government workers never demand payment or money transfers.
Sources
Last reviewed: 19 October 2026.
