The Classic Tech Support Scam
Tech support scams have run for years with a remarkably consistent script: a caller claims to be from Microsoft, Apple, or your internet provider, and says they've detected a problem with your computer — often described as "error signals" or a virus being reported back to their systems. There is no legitimate mechanism for a company to detect problems on your device and call you about it out of the blue. This claim exists purely to establish false authority and create fear.
Where the Script Goes Next
Once the caller has your attention, the script typically escalates in a predictable order:
- Remote access: You're asked to install software like AnyDesk or TeamViewer so they can "take a look." This hands them full control of your device.
- Manufactured findings: Once connected, they often show you normal system logs and claim they're evidence of infection.
- Payment demand: You're told you owe a fee, payable by gift card, wire transfer, or another hard-to-trace method — a method no legitimate company would ever require.
- Urgency: Throughout the call, pressure builds: "fix it now or lose your files," designed to prevent you from pausing to verify.
Why It Works
The scam exploits a mix of technical unfamiliarity and social engineering. Most people don't know what normal system logs look like, so a caller pointing at them and calling them "errors" feels credible in the moment — especially under time pressure.
What To Do
Hang up. Legitimate companies do not make unsolicited calls about your device's health. If you're genuinely concerned about a security issue, contact the company directly using the phone number listed on their official website — never a number the caller gave you. Never install software or grant remote access at a stranger's direction, and never pay with a gift card or wire transfer.
Using the Checker
Paste in a summary or transcript of the call. The tool looks for the script's core building blocks — unsolicited company claims, fabricated error-signal language, remote-access requests, gift card or wire payment demands, and urgency phrasing — and returns a 0–100 risk score with a breakdown of exactly what triggered it, so you can decide with confidence before you act.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — the Tech Support Cold-Call Script Checker scores a call transcript or summary against known scam script patterns like remote-access requests and gift card payment demands. It's a one-time $5.49 purchase — no subscription, no account required.
No. Neither company makes unsolicited calls about errors or viruses on your device. Any call claiming to do so should be treated as a scam attempt.
Disconnect the remote session immediately, run a reputable anti-malware scan, change your important passwords from a different device, and monitor your accounts and bank statements closely.
No. The entire analysis runs locally in your browser — nothing you type is sent to a server.
A low score doesn't guarantee legitimacy — it just means fewer known red flags were detected. When in doubt, hang up and call the company back using their official published number.