High riskText Message Scams

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.

Quick verdict

Risk level
High risk
Scam type
Tech-support impersonation (smishing)
Main red flag
A text warns your device is infected and gives a number to call for 'support'.
What to do first
Do not call. Devices do not detect viruses and text you a support line.

What this scam usually looks like

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.

Example message pattern

Example pattern — not a real report
Example pattern: 'Security Alert: 3 viruses detected on your device and your accounts are at risk. Call our support line immediately to remove them: 1-8XX-XXX-XXXX'

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

  • A virus or hacking warning delivered by text
  • A phone number to call for urgent 'support'
  • Pressure that your accounts or data are at risk
  • A request to install an app or grant remote access
  • Demands for payment to 'fix' the problem

What to do

  • Ignore the number; your phone does not text you virus alerts
  • Run a reputable security scan if you are genuinely concerned
  • Get support only from your device maker's official site
  • Delete the message and block the sender

If you already clicked or replied

  • If you called and installed software, remove remote-access apps and scan the device
  • If you shared card or bank details, contact your bank immediately
  • Change passwords from a separate, trusted device if you gave access
  • Watch for follow-up 'refund' calls that continue the scam

What not to do

  • Do not call the number in the text
  • Do not install software a 'support agent' requests
  • Do not allow remote access to your device

Similar scams

High risk Online Shopping

Fake Customer Support Number Scam

In this scam, fake customer-service numbers appear in search results, ads, or pop-ups, so when you call for help with an order or account, a scammer poses as support and seeks payment, remote access, or your details.
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.
High risk Bank & Payment

Bank Impersonation Phone Scam

In this scam a caller pretends to be your bank's fraud team, claims your account is under attack, and pressures you to move money to a 'safe account', read out one-time codes, or grant remote access so they can steal your funds.

Frequently asked questions

Can a text really detect a virus on my phone?
No. Legitimate security warnings do not arrive as texts urging you to call a number. This is a tactic to get you on a call and into a scam.
Why do they want me to call?
A call lets a scammer talk you into installing remote-access software or paying for a fake fix, where they can view your screen and accounts.
I let them connect to my device. What now?
Disconnect, remove any remote-access tools, run a security scan, and change important passwords from a different, trusted device.
How do I get genuine help?
Contact your device manufacturer or a trusted local technician using official contact details, not a number sent in a text.

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.