High riskTech Support & Computer Scams

Fake Antivirus Scareware Scam

In this scam, fake antivirus warnings or bogus renewal emails claim your device is infected or your subscription is charging you, pushing you to install malware, pay, or call a fake support line.

Quick verdict

Risk level
High risk
Scam type
Scareware / fake software (tech support)
Main red flag
An alarming 'antivirus' warning or renewal charge urging you to install, pay, or call.
What to do first
Do not click or call; check via your real security software or bank statement.

What this scam usually looks like

In this scam, fake antivirus warnings or bogus renewal emails claim your device is infected or your subscription is charging you, pushing you to install malware, pay, or call a fake support line.

Example message pattern

Example pattern — not a real report
Example pattern: 'Your antivirus has expired and 5 threats were found. Renew now or call support to remove the viruses immediately.'

This is a fictional, anonymised example used to illustrate the pattern. It is not a verified real message, and any names are used only to show how the scam typically reads.

Red flags to watch for

  • Alarming infection warnings from software you do not use
  • A renewal 'invoice' for antivirus you did not buy
  • A number to call or link to renew or fix it
  • Downloads pushed as urgent 'security tools'
  • Pressure and countdown timers

What to do

  • Check your device with the real security software you installed
  • Verify charges on your bank or app store statement
  • Do not call numbers or click links in the warning
  • Delete the email and close the pop-up

If you already clicked or replied

  • Run a scan with reputable security software and remove threats
  • Uninstall anything the warning told you to install
  • Dispute any charge with your bank or app store
  • Change passwords if you entered any details

What not to do

  • Do not install 'security tools' from a pop-up or email
  • Do not call the support number in the warning
  • Do not pay a renewal you cannot verify

Similar scams

High risk Tech Support

Fake Virus Pop-up Scam

In this scam, a full-screen pop-up or alarming web page claims your device is infected and urges you to call a 'support' number or download a fix, leading to remote access or bogus payments.
Medium risk Tech Support

PC Optimizer Scam

In this scam, free 'PC cleaner' or optimizer software runs a fake scan, reports alarming problems, then pressures you to pay for the full version to 'fix' issues that may not exist or that it created.
High risk Tech Support

Fake Browser Update Scam

In this scam, a website shows a fake browser, Flash, or plugin update prompt, urging you to download a file that is actually malware or a remote-access tool rather than a genuine update.

Frequently asked questions

Is the virus warning real?
Pop-ups or emails from antivirus you do not use, urging you to install, pay, or call, are scareware. Check only with the real security software you installed.
I got an antivirus renewal invoice. Real?
Bogus renewal emails aim to make you call a fake line or pay. Verify charges on your bank or app store statement, not via the email.
I installed the tool they pushed. What now?
Scan with reputable software, uninstall the pushed tool, dispute any charge, and change passwords you may have entered.
How do I avoid scareware?
Use one reputable security product, ignore unsolicited infection warnings, and never call numbers or click links inside such alerts.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Disclaimer: This page provides educational information only to help you recognise common scam patterns. It is not legal, financial, cybersecurity, or law enforcement advice, and it does not confirm whether any specific message, company, or person is genuine or fraudulent. When in doubt, contact the official organisation directly and report concerns to your local authorities.