Tech support scam is a sort of fraud activity, either through a phone call or a fake popup arising into your computer automatically where a scammer offers the computer user to fix a non-existent problem in lieu of some charges. Since the last 10 years, it has become a million-dollar industry. While it has been on a decline, but people still get in the trap of those scammers.
What the tech support scam claims
Tech support scammers usually phone/email you and tell there is a problem with your computer. This includes sending viruses over the Internet, not working correctly as it should etc. To prove it, they open the Event viewer and show some error messages, which are present on every functioning computer. Another variant is you may get an unexpected popup in your browser like this:
Image credits: BleepingComputer.comThe popup may arise from a mistyped URL or you may have adware on your device which came with a product you installed.
What Tech support scammers ask
Tech Support scammers tell you that they can fix the problem for you and ask for some charge. Additionally, they may offer a subscription plan, installing malware, stealing information etc.
How to spot a Tech support scam
An unsolicited phone call or email is the first sign of a Tech support scam. Unless you have made prior arrangements, Microsoft/any other IT company would not call you to fix problems. Secondly, you can see the number. Every company has listed the support numbers on their website. Confirm with them.
If you get calls
If you get calls and have interacted at least once, you should report the scam to Microsoft. Also, see these additional links:
Report a Scam
https://www.microsoft.com/en-in/concern/scam?rtc=1
Additional references:
Is that call from Microsoft a scam?
Protect yourself from tech support scams
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/4013405/windows-protect-from-tech-support-scams
Avoid Tech support scams
https://www.ftc.gov/tips-advice/business-center/small-businesses/cybersecurity/tech-support-scams
Type of Tech support scams
https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-spot-avoid-and-report-tech-support-scams
Tech support scammers are getting smarter
https://komonews.com/news/consumer/tech-support-scammers-are-getting-smarter
If you have given remote access to tech support scammers
If you have allowed someone to remote access your computer, your information may be compromised. You should assume everything on your computer compromised, including Credit card, financial information, passwords etc. Change your passwords immediately and block the cards.
A clean installation of Windows is what we recommend as you do not know what they have done. You may first try to see these additional information links and then decide if a clean install is necessary.
Answers to the common security questions
If you got Tech support scam pop-ups, follow this guide and reset your browsers
http://malwaretips.com/blogs/remove-tech-support-scam-popups/
Run Super antispyware tool
http://www.superantispyware.com/
For a clean install, you can use the Tool or follow the guide below:
Microsoft releases a tool to clean Install Windows 10 easily