Home › Scams & security
Topic
Scams & security
Staying safe: suspicious texts, emails and calls, scary pop-ups, fake tech support, and what to do if you've already clicked or paid.
A good rule: if someone you didn't contact calls, texts or pops up a message offering to fix your computer, treat it as a scam. Hang up or close the page, and never give them remote access, passwords or payment.
Start here
Common problems
Five issues people often run into. Listed by topic, not ranked.
- Is this text, email or link a scam?Guide coming soon
Warning signs to check before you click. - Is this phone number a scam?Guide coming soon
What to do about unknown and suspicious callers. - A pop-up says my computer is infectedGuide coming soon
How to close it safely. Don't call the number on screen. - Someone called saying they're from Microsoft or AppleGuide coming soon
How tech-support scams work. - I clicked, paid or gave someone remote accessGuide coming soon
What to do now, and where to report it.
Guides
Guides for scams & security
- Scary pop-up says your computer is infected? Read this firstComing soonHow to close it safely.
- “Microsoft called me”: tech-support scams and what to doComing soonIf you already gave access or paid.
- How to spot a phishing emailComing soonReal warning signs, explained.
Guides marked Coming soon are planned but not written yet.
Other topics: Computer help · Printer help · Wi-Fi & internet · Email · Phones & tablets · Label printer help
Help us write the next guide
Didn't fix it? Tell us what you’re stuck on
This is a free self-help site. We can't offer one-on-one support right now, but if a guide didn't solve your problem, let us know what you're stuck on. It helps us decide which guides to write or improve next.