How to Spot a Tech Support Scam and Respond Safely

Common situations worth checking

• A browser warning fills the screen and tells you not to close it.
• An unexpected caller asks you to install remote-access software.
• A message asks you to approve a sign-in you did not initiate.
• Someone requests gift cards, cryptocurrency or an urgent transfer to “protect” money.

A familiar logo or a caller who knows your name is not proof of identity. Scammers can copy branding and reuse leaked personal details. You do not need to argue with them: stop the interaction and verify separately.

If you allowed remote access

Disconnect the affected computer from the internet and use a trusted device to seek help. Keep a record of the time, software used and actions you remember. If it is a work device, notify your organisation. A normal software cleanup is not a substitute for assessing which accounts or business information may have been exposed.

If you shared information or paid money

Contact your bank promptly using its official app or a known number if money or payment details may be involved. On a trusted device, review affected accounts and their recovery settings. Scamwatch provides reporting guidance and links to identity support such as IDCARE. Be wary of follow-up approaches offering to recover funds for a fee.

Before your next genuine support session

Start from the service’s own website or a contact you already trust. Agree what the session covers, understand the charge and stay present for the connection. Do not disclose one-time codes to an unsolicited caller. A technician should be able to explain what they want to change and why.

If you contact NOXTech, describe the incident without including passwords, identity-document images or banking details. We can discuss an appropriate next step; we do not promise recovery of stolen funds or every compromised account.