Microsoft Support Is Calling?

Protect yourself

Never grant remote access to an unexpected caller. Contact your IT provider directly, never a number the caller gives you.

How it works

Someone claiming to be technical support says your computer is infected and asks you to install software so they can fix it.

Once the remote-control tool is installed, the caller can see everything on the screen, including saved passwords and online banking, and can leave software behind for later.

Red flags

Microsoft, Apple or Google calling you first (they don't)
A request to install AnyDesk, TeamViewer or a similar tool
A "refund" that needs your online banking open on screen

If it already happened

If you already paid or gave access: hang up and call your bank from the number on your card to stop or reverse the payment, change any password you read out, and if you installed software or granted remote control, disconnect the computer and call your IT provider. Report the call at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

Where OpenEFA fits

Email filtering can't stop a phone call. The defense here is a habit: hang up, and call back on a number you already trust.

Scam Watch No. 04 · EFA Security · efasecurity.com/scam-watch/ · Print this page and post it where your team will see it.

No. 03: Your Bank Account Is Under Attack! No. 05: A Family Member Needs Money — NOW!

Part of the OpenEFA MailGuard Scam Watch series. Published October 21, 2026 by the EFA Security team. Share it freely; a link back is appreciated.

At a glance

Type: Phone Scam
Channel: Phone Scams (Vishing)
They want: Money, usually by gift card, wire or cash app, or remote access to your computer
One rule: Tech companies don't cold-call about infected computers.

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All 24 alerts

Phone, email and text message scams, each on one page.

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