Scary pop-up or phone call? Stop. You're okay.

Nothing bad happens if you do nothing. Scammers need you to hurry — so take a breath, and follow these steps.

Right now

Do these three things.

Step 1
Don't call the number. Don't click anything.
The warning is fake, even if it's loud or flashing. Real companies like Microsoft and Apple never put a phone number in a warning.
Step 2
Turn the computer off.
Hold the power button down for 10 seconds, until the screen goes dark. This won't harm your computer.
Step 3
Call us.
We'll check your computer safely and make sure nothing was left behind.

Already talked to them?

It happens to smart, careful people every day. It is not your fault — these crooks are professionals. Here's how to limit the damage.

Step 1
Turn the computer off
Hold the power button for 10 seconds. If someone is connected to it, this cuts them off.
Step 2
Call your bank or card company
Use the phone number on the back of your card. Tell them you paid a scammer. They can often stop or reverse the charge.
Step 3
Don't answer when they call back
Scammers often call again offering a “refund.” It's the same scam, second try. Let it ring.
Step 4
Have your computer checked
Call us. We'll remove anything they installed and help you change your passwords from a safe device.

Know the signs

If you spot even one of these, it's a scam. Hang up or turn it off.

A warning with a phone number
Any pop-up, email, or text that tells you to call a number about a “virus” or “problem.”
A call you didn't ask for
Someone says they're from Microsoft, Apple, Amazon, your bank, or the government — and they called you.
“Let me connect to your computer”
A stranger asks you to install a program so they can “fix” it from far away.
Gift cards, wire transfers, or Bitcoin
No real company asks to be paid with gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or cash pickup.
“Act now” and “don't tell anyone”
Scammers rush you and want it kept secret. A real company is happy for you to hang up and ask family first.
Our promise to you
- We never call you first.
- We never ask for passwords by phone.
- We never take gift cards.

More help

These free services are run by AARP and the U.S. government. Reporting a scam helps protect your neighbors.

AARP Fraud Watch Helpline
Free. Trained volunteers who will talk it through with you.
877-908-3360
National Elder Fraud Hotline
Run by the U.S. Department of Justice, for people 60 and over.
833-372-8311
Federal Trade Commission
Report the scam online so others can be warned.
ReportFraud.ftc.gov

Honest remote help does exist, and we offer it. The difference is simple: you call us, we never call you first, and there is nothing to download from a link. See how our remote help works and the two rules that keep it safe.

Call and tell us what’s going on. A real local person answers, and there’s never any pressure.