Before you call printer or tech support
Most support problems are frustrating, not emergencies. If a page, caller, text, or email is trying to scare you into acting immediately, stop before giving anyone access to your computer or money.
Six warning signs
A pop-up tells you to call a phone number
Do not call it. Real security warnings do not need a phone number in the warning itself. Close the browser if you can.
“Support” contacts you first
Be suspicious of an unexpected call, text, or email saying your computer or printer has a serious problem.
They want remote control right away
Do not install remote-control software because an unexpected caller or pop-up told you to. If you need assisted support, start from the manufacturer's official website yourself.
They want unusual payment
Gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, bank transfers, or being told to move money “to protect it” are major scam signs.
They ask for passwords or verification codes
Do not give an unexpected support caller your banking information, passwords, Social Security number, or one-time sign-in codes.
They are rushing or threatening you
Scammers use urgency to keep you from checking. It is okay to hang up, close the page, and ask someone you trust before doing anything.
The safer way to get printer help
- Write down the printer brand, model, and exact error message if there is one.
- Go directly to the printer manufacturer's official support website. Printer Triage keeps a verified official-support directory.
- If you want a local repair shop, choose one independently. Do not use a repair company that appeared only because a scary pop-up or unexpected caller sent you there.
- Before paying for a repair, ask what the expected charge is and what work they plan to do.
Do not call the number or click its repair button. Try closing the browser. If the page will not close, restart the computer and then use a trusted security scan or ask someone you trust for help.
If you already gave someone remote access
Stop communicating with the person. Remove remote-access software they told you to install, run a security scan, install available security updates, and change important passwords. If you paid them or gave them card/bank information, contact the card issuer or bank using a number you already know is real. If you are uncomfortable doing the computer cleanup yourself, ask a trusted person or a local computer shop that you chose independently.
If the person had full access to the computer and you are unsure what they changed, Microsoft advises that a device reset may be worth considering in some cases. That is a bigger step, so do not rush into it without making sure important files are backed up or getting trusted help.