High riskTech Support

Microsoft Support Call Scam

In this scam, a caller claims to be from Microsoft or Windows support about detected errors, expired licences, or security issues, pressuring you to install remote-access software or pay to 'fix' your PC.

Quick verdict

Risk level
High risk
Scam type
Software impersonation (vishing)
Main red flag
An unsolicited 'Microsoft' call about errors on your PC.
What to do first
Hang up. Microsoft does not cold-call about errors on your device.

How this scam works

In this scam, a caller claims to be from Microsoft or Windows support about detected errors, expired licences, or security issues, pressuring you to install remote-access software or pay to 'fix' your PC.

Tech-support scams use pop-ups, emails, and cold calls claiming your device is infected or your account is at risk. The "fix" is always remote access, which hands criminals control of your machine, your logins, and often a fake "refund" that reverses in their favour.

In short, the giveaway is usually simple: An unsolicited 'Microsoft' call about errors on your PC. Hang up. Microsoft does not cold-call about errors on your device.

Scammers rotate tactics constantly, the same operation may also run the Fake Tech Support Scam and the Remote Access Scam. See the full Tech Support & Computer Scams guides hub, or test a suspicious message with the scam checker.

How to spot this scam

  • An unsolicited call claiming to be Microsoft or Windows
  • Claims of detected errors or an expired licence
  • A request to install software or grant remote access
  • Pressure to pay for a fix or subscription
  • Threats that your PC will fail or be blocked

What the message looks like

Example pattern, not a real report
Example pattern: 'This is Microsoft support. We've detected errors on your Windows computer. Let us connect to fix them before your licence expires.'

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.

What gives it away: An unsolicited 'Microsoft' call about errors on your PC.

The scale of it

Older adults
are the group most affected by tech-support scams, with the highest reported losses
Source: FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center
$2.7B
reported lost to imposter scams in the US in 2023, which include tech support fraud
Source: US Federal Trade Commission

How to protect yourself

  • Hang up; software companies do not cold-call about errors
  • Never grant remote access or pay on the call
  • Get support from the official Microsoft website if needed
  • Report and block the number

Already responded? Do this now

  • Disconnect and remove any remote-access software
  • Run a security scan and change passwords from a trusted device
  • Contact your bank if you shared card or bank details
  • Watch for follow-up 'refund' calls

Mistakes to avoid

  • Do not grant remote access to a 'Microsoft' caller
  • Do not pay for a fix or subscription on the call
  • Do not call back on a number the caller gives

Related scams to know

High risk Email

Fake Tech Support Scam

This scam uses a pop-up, email, or phone call warning that your computer is infected or your account is compromised, urging you to call a number or allow remote access, after which the fake 'technician' charges fees, installs software, or takes your data.

Created by Scam or Safe Editorial Team
High risk Tech Support

Remote Access Scam

In this scam, a caller or pop-up convinces you to install remote-access software so 'support' can fix an issue, then uses the control to view your screen, steal data, and move money.

Created by Scam or Safe Editorial Team
High risk Text Message

Tech Support Text Scam

This scam texts that your device is infected, hacked, or compromised and urges you to call a 'support' number, where a fake agent seeks remote access, payment, or your account details.

Created by Scam or Safe Editorial Team

Common questions

Does Microsoft call about computer errors?
No. Microsoft and other software firms do not cold-call about errors, licences, or viruses on your device. Such calls are scams.
They knew details about my PC. Is it real?
Scammers use generic claims that fit most computers, or guess. Knowing common details does not make the call genuine.
I let them connect. What now?
Disconnect, remove the software, run a scan, change passwords from a trusted device, and contact your bank if details were shared.
How do I get genuine Microsoft support?
Use the official Microsoft website or support app, not a number from a call, pop-up, or ad.

Last reviewed June 2026 · Written & reviewed by the

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.