Medium riskTech 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.

Quick verdict

Risk level
Medium risk
Scam type
Scareware (fake software)
Main red flag
Free optimizer software that finds many 'critical' problems and demands payment to fix them.
What to do first
Be sceptical of dramatic scan results; uninstall and use trusted tools.

Understanding this 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.

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.

If you take one thing from this guide, make it this: Free optimizer software that finds many 'critical' problems and demands payment to fix them. Be sceptical of dramatic scan results; uninstall and use trusted tools.

If your message looks slightly different, check the Fleeceware App Scam or the Fake Tech Support Scam, both are close cousins of this pattern. Every related guide lives in the Tech Support & Computer Scams guides, and the scam checker can scan the text you received.

A typical example

Example pattern, not a real report
Example pattern: 'Scan complete: 437 critical issues found! Upgrade now to fix your PC and boost performance.'

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.

The tell here: Free optimizer software that finds many 'critical' problems and demands payment to fix them.

What the data shows

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

Warning signs

  • A free scan reporting alarming numbers of 'critical' issues
  • Pressure to pay for the full version to fix them
  • Software bundled with other apps you did not choose
  • Recurring subscription charges
  • Hard-to-find uninstall or cancel options

Your safest response

  • Be sceptical of dramatic scan results
  • Use reputable, trusted maintenance tools or built-in features
  • Uninstall the software and cancel any subscription
  • Research any tool before installing it

If you have already engaged

  • Uninstall the optimizer and run a reputable security scan
  • Cancel any subscription and dispute unfair charges
  • Check for other bundled apps to remove
  • Keep records of charges

What to avoid

  • Do not pay based on a scary scan result
  • Do not install optimizers bundled with other software
  • Do not ignore recurring charges

You might also see

Medium risk Online Shopping

Fleeceware App Scam

In this scam, an app offers a short free trial for simple features, then charges large recurring subscription fees that are easy to start and hard to cancel, relying on you forgetting to cancel in time.

Created by Scam or Safe Editorial Team
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

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.

Created by Scam or Safe Editorial Team

Questions people ask

Are PC optimizers genuine?
Some are legitimate, but many exaggerate or invent problems to sell a fix or trap you in subscriptions. Be sceptical of dramatic scan results.
It found hundreds of critical issues. Real?
Scareware inflates harmless items into 'critical issues' to pressure you to pay. Use reputable tools or built-in maintenance instead.
I bought it and now I'm charged monthly. What now?
Uninstall it, cancel the subscription, dispute unfair charges with your payment provider, and remove any bundled apps.
How do I maintain my PC safely?
Use reputable, well-reviewed tools or your operating system's built-in maintenance, and research any software before installing.

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.