Technical Support Scams

What is a Tech Support Scam?

Cyber criminals are continuously advancing their scamming methods, including technical support scams. A technical support scam occurs when cyber criminals fraudulently represent a company offering technical assistance. Often times they will request to remote into your computer, during which they have every opportunity to take over its functionality, and even install malicious software. Beyond the threat of overtaking the device, they will also charge their victims hundreds of dollars. For what? Nothing. They aren’t fixing your computer. Their end game is one or more of the following: worm their way into your device, install malicious software, obtain personal information, gather payment data.

Prevent Technical Support Scams

Experiencing a Tech Support Scam

Are you really Microsoft?
The scammers work hard to associate with the Microsoft brand without crossing the line. But sometimes they cross the line.
Having some fun
PC Matic CEO, Rob Cheng, had some fun playing with the scammers on the phone and ultimately gets his problem solved...

Tech Support Scam Numbers

Fraudulent support scams are constantly updating their phone numbers to avoid detection.
We have compiled a list of the most recent numbers used by these scammers.
Scam Phone # First Seen Last Seen
1-800-521-6038 9/16/2022 9/16/2022
1-800-772-1213 12/6/2021 12/6/2021
1-909-883-8611 5/14/2021 10/12/2021
1-855-274-9507 9/9/2021 9/9/2021
1-762-888-8180 2/1/2021 2/1/2021
1-712-432-0075 12/3/2020 12/3/2020
1-888-777-4870 11/25/2020 11/27/2020
1-855-368-4200 11/18/2020 11/18/2020
1-855-740-0616 10/16/2020 10/16/2020
1-844-386-6601 10/12/2020 10/13/2020

Types of Tech Support Scams

Phone Calls & Text Messaging

Tech support scammers may call or text pretending to be a computer technician from a well-known company. They say they’ve found a problem with your computer and often ask you to give them remote access to your computer. Then pretend to run a diagnostic test, in an effort to make you pay to fix a problem that doesn’t exist. Listen to an FTC undercover call with a tech support scammer

Pop Ups

Tech support scammers may try to lure you with a pop-up window that appears on your computer screen. It might look like an error message from your operating system or antivirus software, and it might use logos from trusted companies or websites. The message in the window warns of a security issue on your computer and tells you to call a phone number to get help.

Online Ads & Social Media

These scams are often an attempt to reach users searching for technical support through search engines or social media outlets. If you’re looking for tech support, go to a company you know and trust. Contact PC Matic Tech Support Online.

The Red Flags of a Tech Support Scam

Scammers use various methods to target their victims; it’s important users understand the red flags to spot these fraudsters

Protect Yourself From Technical Support Scams

Do not trust unsolicited callers

Reputable companies do not call consumers without their permission.

Check for unusual claims

If someone calls you to tell you that you have a problem you had no idea about, don’t believe it. Hang up and do your research before accepting any help.

Make sure it's official

Make sure you are on the official website or call the real help line before sharing personal information or paying money.

Deny remote access

If you have a real technical problem, seek help from a reputable company or individual. Never allow a stranger to access your computer remotely.

Go directly to the source

If your computer is running Windows, for example, check for updates, new operating systems, and technical support directly from Microsoft's website. To avoid Microsoft Tech Support scams, do not call a phone number, click on any link or download any file from an unsolicited email claiming to be from Microsoft.

Official PC Matic Support

PC Matic offers US-based online technical support, seven days a week completely free of charge. Based on over 21 years of service, we have found online support to be the most effective and efficient for our users. There are three ways to access PC Matic technical support:

Get Real PC Matic Technical Support

PC Matic Support

Our dedicated technical support team is available 7 days a week 365 days a year to effectively assist our customers with PC Matic questions or problems via email at no added charge.

Online Support
Avoid Tech Support Scams with the PC Matic App

PC Matic App

Our technical support department can be reached through the Support option located in your PC Matic app.

Avoid Fake Tech Support with Support Unlimited from PC Matic

Support Unlimited from PC Matic

Get support and tech coaching via Phone, Email, Chat and Remote Assistance for all of your technology needs on computers, printers, routers, smart devices, tablets and more.

Learn More
Secure Your Family’s Devices

Millions of families around the world trust PC Matic to protect their home devices.

Business & Government Security

PC Matic Pro provides security and device management for public and private organizations of any size.