Fictional scam example · 4 of 6
The alarming support pop-up
A website claims your device is infected and offers urgent “help”.
Read the example
What would make you pause? Open each explanation, then compare your next step.
Three things to notice
1. A website claims to know your device is infected
An alarming pop-up is a common tech-support scam approach. The message is not a diagnosis.
2. A phone number chosen by the pop-up
Calling it connects you to the contact provided by the person who created the warning.
3. A request for remote access
Control of a device can expose files, accounts and banking information.
A safer next step
Do not call the number or install anything from the pop-up. Close the page; seek help from a support provider you independently trust if needed. If you already allowed remote access, interrupt the connection and follow the help steps from another trusted device.
These clues are not a definitive scam test. Some fraudulent messages are polished and have no obvious errors.
Sources & review
Source check: October 5, 2026. These links go to the original publishers; listing a source is not an endorsement. Safety and reporting guidance follows these official Canadian pages. Confirm current details there before acting.
- CAFC — Service
- CAFC — Recovery pitch
- Get Cyber Safe — What to do if you are a victim of a phishing scam - Get Cyber Safe