Microsoft Tech Support Scam Hits SWLA: What You Need to Know
Scammers are targeting Southwest Louisiana residents with fake “Microsoft” support calls, emails, and pop-ups. Their goal: scare you into believing your computer is infected, then steal your money or personal info. These scams have recently spiked locally, especially among seniors and small businesses.
How the Scam Works
- You receive a call, popup, or email claiming your computer is infected or your Microsoft account is at risk.
- The scammer urgently “offers to help” and asks for remote access, or tells you to buy gift cards or Green Dot cards to “fix the problem.”
- Sometimes, a popup locks your screen, demanding you call a fake tech support number.
What They Want: Money (via untraceable gift cards) or remote access to steal your data, passwords, or bank info.
What a Real Scam Might Look Like:
Example Popup:
⚠️ Your Microsoft Windows system is infected! Call 1-888-XXX-XXXX immediately to avoid data loss. Your computer has been blocked. Do not shut down or restart. Contact Microsoft Support: 1-888-XXX-XXXX **Example Phone Call Script:** "This is John from Microsoft Technical Department. We have detected several viruses on your computer. If you do not act now, your data may be lost. Please purchase a Green Dot MoneyPak card and provide the code so we can unlock your computer."
Example Email:
Subject: Microsoft Security Alert – Action Required Dear User, We have detected unusual activity on your Microsoft account. Your access will be suspended within 24 hours unless you call our support team at 1-888-XXX-XXXX.
What To Do If You’re Targeted
- Don’t call the number or click any links. Microsoft never asks for payment via gift cards or Green Dot cards.
- Do NOT let anyone remote into your computer unless you initiated contact with a verified support professional.
- Never click any part of the popup—even the “X” to close it. These buttons can be fake and may download malware.
Instead, always close suspicious popups using Ctrl+Alt+Delete, open Task Manager, and end the browser task directly. This is the safest way to ensure you don’t accidentally activate malicious links or scripts. - If you gave out payment info, contact your bank immediately.
- Report the scam to the FTC and SAFE Net (SWLA’s local Scam Awareness & Fraud Education Network).
For more resources or to report a local scam, visit our Scams section or reach out to SAFE Net SWLA.
SWLA Microsoft Scam FAQ
Q: Does Microsoft ever call customers about viruses or computer problems?
A: No. Microsoft does not make unsolicited calls or send popups asking for payment or remote access. Any such contact is a scam.
Q: What should I do if I get a popup saying my computer is infected?
A: Do not click any buttons on the popup, including the “X.” Instead, use Ctrl+Alt+Delete to open Task Manager and close your browser. Run a trusted antivirus scan after.
Q: How can I tell a tech support scam from a real alert?
A: Real alerts never demand payment via gift card, Green Dot, or ask for immediate remote access. Watch for urgent language and generic phone numbers.
Q: Who do I contact if I think I’ve been scammed?
A: Report it to SAFE Net (local), the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov, and notify your bank if you provided financial info.