What is a tech support scam?

A tech support scam uses a false computer or account problem to obtain money, information or device access. It may begin with a phone call or pop-up warning, and criminals can misuse legitimate remote-access software. A tool being genuine does not mean the person asking you to install it is trustworthy. 12

By Secordit. Last checked: 7 November 2026.

Go to the steps · All glossary terms

How it works

  1. A call or screen message claims your device or account has a problem. 12
  2. The criminal persuades you to install software or grant remote access. 12
  3. They use that access to obtain information or reach banking services. 12

Real UK example

Report Fraud's April 2022 warning described a victim called by someone claiming to be from Sky. The caller alleged a problem with the Sky box and persuaded the victim to install a remote-access tool.

The criminal then accessed online banking. The software enabled the fraud; it did not make the caller genuine. 1

Warning signs

  • An unexpected caller diagnoses a device problem. 12
  • A browser pop-up asks you to phone a support number. 12
  • Someone wants remote access while you use banking services. 1234
  • A caller claims access is needed to reverse a payment you did not recognise. 1234

What to do now

  1. End the call and do not grant further remote access. 12
  2. If access was granted, disconnect the device from the internet. Contact your bank from another device if banking may be affected. 1234
  3. Get help through your provider’s genuine support channel or the NCSC’s infected-device guidance. 12

UK reporting and support

  • If money has gone or banking details were shared, call your bank using the number on your card. Or use 159 if your bank participates. 345
  • Report fraud or hacking in England, Wales or Northern Ireland to Report Fraud. In Scotland, call Police Scotland on 101. 46
  • If someone is in danger, call 999. 6

How to protect yourself

  • Do not install remote-access tools because an unsolicited caller asks. 12
  • Find support contact details yourself. 12
  • Keep devices updated and discuss fake support calls with family members. 12

Frequently asked questions

Are remote-access tools always scams?

No. They have legitimate uses. Report Fraud warns that criminals misuse them after unsolicited calls or pop-ups. 1

Can a pop-up prove my computer is infected?

No. A fake warning can be the start of a remote-access scam. Check through genuine support rather than calling the pop-up’s number. 1

What if I used online banking while someone had remote access?

Contact your bank from a different device and explain the access. Follow genuine technical support to secure the affected device. 1

Matching kit

After a Scam: What to Do First · £7 · Digital download.

A printable UK checklist for the money, account and reporting steps. It is general information, not a recovery service.

General information, not legal, financial or personalised security advice. Secordit is not a police or bank reporting service.

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Sources

  1. Report Fraud, More than £50 million lost to remote access tool scams last year - Report Fraud. Accessed 7 November 2026 (Europe/London).
  2. NCSC, How to recover an infected device | National Cyber Security Centre. Accessed 7 November 2026 (Europe/London).
  3. UK Finance, Authorised Push Payment Fraud Reimbursement | UK Finance. Accessed 7 November 2026 (Europe/London).
  4. Report Fraud, Report Fraud alert: Police forces being impersonated in scam calls using ‘spoofed’ phone numbers - Report Fraud. Accessed 7 November 2026 (Europe/London).
  5. Stop Scams UK, 159 Phone number - Stop Scams UK. Accessed 7 November 2026 (Europe/London).
  6. Police Scotland, How to report a crime - Police Scotland. Accessed 7 November 2026 (Europe/London).