Fake Software Update Scams
Americans lost $12.5 billion to fraud in 2024, according to the FTC.
Quick Answer
Fake software update scams trick users into installing malware through deceptive pop-ups, leading to significant financial loss; tech support scams, a closely related category, cost victims over $1.46 billion in 2024 alone, according to the FBI.
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How It Works
1
A fake pop-up message or browser window appears, warning of a critical security threat or the need for an urgent software or browser update. These messages are designed to look like legitimate notifications from companies like Microsoft, Apple, or Google and often use logos and urgent language to create panic.
2
The pop-up instructs the user to click a link to download the update or call a provided toll-free number for technical assistance. The message may freeze the browser or display a loud alarm to pressure the user into immediate action, warning that shutting down the computer will cause data loss.
3
If the user clicks the link, they unknowingly download malware, such as a remote access trojan (RAT), ransomware, or spyware. If they call the number, they reach a scammer posing as a technician who will request remote access to their computer to "fix" the non-existent problem.
4
Once scammers gain access, they may install malicious software, steal personal and financial information, or lock the computer and demand payment. They often charge a fee for the fraudulent "repairs" or sell unnecessary long-term security subscriptions.
Red Flags
- Unsolicited pop-up browser warnings that claim your computer is infected and instruct you to call a specific phone number.
- Notifications that freeze your screen or play loud alarms and flashing lights to create a sense of urgency.
- Grammatical errors, typos, or unprofessional design in the update notification or on the linked website.
- Requests for remote access to your computer from an unknown person or company you did not contact first.
- Pressure to pay for tech support services with unconventional methods like gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
- Receiving a phone call, text, or email about a computer problem you were unaware of from someone claiming to be from a major tech company.
- Error messages that include a phone number to call for help; legitimate companies like Microsoft do not include phone numbers in their error notifications.
What to Do If Targeted
- Do not click any links, download files, or call the number on the pop-up message.
- If the browser is frozen, shut down your computer or use Task Manager (Ctrl+Alt+Delete) or Force Quit (Command-Option-Esc) to close the browser. Restart the device.
- Never grant an unsolicited caller remote access to your device.
- Go directly to the official company's website (e.g., Microsoft, Apple) to check for and download any legitimate software updates.
- Run a scan with legitimate, up-to-date security software to check for any malware.
- If you have already paid a scammer, contact your bank or credit card company immediately to report the fraud and dispute the charges.
How to Report It
- FTC — File a fraud report with the Federal Trade Commission. Your report helps law enforcement build cases against scammers.
- FBI IC3 — Report internet crime, including tech support scams, to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).
- BBB — Report the incident on the Better Business Bureau's Scam Tracker to warn others in your community.
- FCC — File a complaint about phone scams, robocalls, or unwanted calls with the Federal Communications Commission.
- AARP Fraud Helpline — Call 877-908-3360 for free support from trained fraud specialists. Available to anyone, not just AARP members.
Key Statistics
- Losses from tech support scams, which often use fake update warnings, reached $1.46 billion in 2024, a significant increase from the previous year. — FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) 2025 Report
- In 2025, losses reported to the FBI IC3 for tech support scams climbed to $2.13 billion. — FBI Internet Crime Report 2025
- Nearly half of the victims of tech support scams in 2023 were over the age of 60, according to the FBI. — FBI IC3 2023 Report
- The FTC received 52,000 reports of scammers impersonating Best Buy or its Geek Squad tech support brand in 2023. — Federal Trade Commission (FTC) 2024
- A Microsoft study found that 60% of consumers had been exposed to a tech support scam within the previous twelve months. — Microsoft 2021 Global Tech Support Scam Research
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Frequently Asked Questions
No, legitimate tech companies like Microsoft and Apple will never proactively contact you by phone, email, or with a pop-up message to report a problem with your computer. All support requests must be initiated by you, the customer. Unsolicited contact claiming a security issue is a scam.
These scams can lead to serious consequences, including the installation of malware that steals your personal information like bank logins and passwords. Scammers can also install ransomware that locks your files until you pay a fee, or they may directly steal money from your bank accounts after gaining remote access. This can result in significant financial loss and identity theft.
Immediately disconnect your computer from the internet to prevent further data transmission to the scammers. Run a full scan using a reputable antivirus program to find and remove any malware. It is also critical to change all of your passwords, especially for sensitive accounts like banking and email, and monitor your financial accounts for any unauthorized activity.
Yes, this scam affects people of all ages. While older adults often suffer higher financial losses, research from Microsoft shows that Gen Z and Millennials are more frequently exposed to and victimized by tech support scams. This is often because younger generations engage in more online activities that can expose them to these threats.
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