Attacks & Threats
Tech Support Scam
Also known as: Fake support fraud, Refund scam
Definition
A fraud in which attackers pose as technical support agents from a well-known vendor to convince victims to install remote-access tools, hand over credentials, or pay for fake services.
Examples
- A fake "Windows Defender" pop-up with a toll-free number that connects to scammers selling a fake clean-up service.
- Refund-scam callers who use remote access to manipulate a victim's bank balance and demand returns in crypto.
Related terms
Scareware
Malicious software or web content that uses fake alarming messages to scare victims into installing junk software, paying for fake services, or calling fraudsters.
Vishing
Phishing conducted over voice channels — phone calls or VoIP — to manipulate victims into revealing credentials, payments, or remote access.
Social Engineering
The psychological manipulation of people into performing actions or disclosing confidential information that benefits an attacker.
Remote Access Trojan (RAT)
Malware that gives an attacker covert, interactive control of an infected device, similar to a hidden remote-administration tool.
Phishing
A social-engineering attack in which an attacker impersonates a trusted party to trick a victim into revealing credentials, transferring money, or running malware.
Rogue Security Software
Fake antivirus or system-cleaning software that pretends to find threats and demands payment to fix them, while often installing real malware itself.