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Tech support Circulating now CASE-2026-0015

Fake virus warning sells annual cleanup plan

A support imposter claims the device has severe errors and sells unnecessary cleanup software or a warranty plan.

First reported
May 7, 2026
Last updated
May 27, 2026
Source
Public source ↗

How this scam works

The warning appeared through a call or pop-up. The target was told the computer showed error messages, viruses, or signs of imminent data loss. The supposed technician offered to fix the issue by installing software and selling a yearly support plan.

The scan is theater. Tech support imposters often run ordinary system tools, highlight harmless logs, and present them as proof of infection. The sale may include a one-time cleanup fee, subscription warranty, or security package. In other cases, the remote session is used to install malware or collect payment credentials.

The claim should be tested by origin. Did you contact the company through a verified channel, or did the warning find you first? Unexpected support contact is the warning sign. Real security alerts do not require payment through gift cards, wire transfers, payment apps, or cryptocurrency. End the session and contact a trusted local technician if needed.

If this happened to you

First, take a breath. Being targeted is not your fault — these scammers do this all day, every day, and they are very good at it. Here's what to do next:

  1. Stop contact and don't send any more money or information.
  2. If money or an account is involved, call your bank or card company right away.
  3. Report it — it helps protect others: tell us here and file with the FTC ↗.
  4. Tell someone you trust. Talking about it openly takes away the scammer's biggest weapon: shame.

If you're feeling embarrassed or shaken, that's a completely normal reaction — and it passes. You're not alone, and help is free:

  • AARP Fraud Watch Helpline: 877-908-3360 — free to talk it through, even if you're not a member.
  • Recover your identity: IdentityTheft.gov ↗ — a free, step-by-step plan from the FTC.

We compile entries from the public source above. We don't publish private screenshots or message threads. If you report a new instance, please keep the original message, sender address, phone number, links, and any payment request.

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