Spot A Scam
Identifying whether a website is real, or fake can be challenging.
We've created the ‘CheckNetsafe’ Anti-Scam Tool, which helps you determine the legitimacy of a website or link.
Tech support scams aim to convince you that there's an issue with your devices or internet connection. They abuse this trust to install malicious software or gain access to your devices under the guise of providing support for an issue that doesn't exist.
Last Updated30/07/2024
Scammers often make unexpected contact, pretending to be from well-known tech companies. Tech support scams aim to convince you that there's an issue with your devices or internet connection. They abuse this trust to install malicious software or gain access to your devices under the guise of providing support for an issue that doesn't exist.
If you think you’ve been the target of a tech-support scam you can contact Netsafe for advice and guidance.
Our helpline is free, confidential and available 7 days a week.
It’s common to believe your device has slowed down or has a problem. Receiving a call offering help can be reassuring, but tech scammers mis-use this trust to conduct their remote-access scams.
They may scare you into believing something is wrong and convince you to install 'remote access software' which lets them access your computer or network from another location.
Scammers might suggest the following scenarios:
It's critical to stay vigilant and cautious when receiving unexpected communications regarding your technology.
Scammers might use scare tactics with online ads or pop-ups that impersonate legitimate antivirus companies or tech organisations.
These notifications claim you have a virus or suspicious activity and may redirect you to a fake website or ask for personal information, potentially installing viruses on your computer.
Tech scammers aim to make money by gaining remote access, through:
Watch out for these signs that could indicate you’re being targeted by a scammer:
Scammers often claim they’re from large corporations like Microsoft, Chorus, Spark, or Google. These companies do not make unsolicited calls to inform you about issues with your computer or connection.
Tech companies won’t ask you to pay to receive support. Reputable companies won't ask for payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency.
Real antivirus warnings won’t display a contact number. If you see such notifications, run a malware/virus scan on your device or use trusted antivirus software.
Tech companies won’t ask for remote access. Avoid downloading software or visiting websites recommended by strangers over the phone.
If you suspect there may be malware on your device, it is advisable to consult with a professional IT specialist who can identify and remove the malware for you.
If you think you’ve been targeted by a tech-support scam, inform your friends and family to help them avoid falling victim.
You can contact Netsafe seven days a week for free, confidential and non-judgmental advice about an online issue impacting you or someone you know.
Whilst we cannot investigate or track scammers, we can provide advice on steps you can take to stay safe and what to do if you think you’ve been scammed.
Identifying whether a website is real, or fake can be challenging.
We've created the ‘CheckNetsafe’ Anti-Scam Tool, which helps you determine the legitimacy of a website or link.
Download our handy guide to stay vigilant and be ready to spot common scams.