FAQ > Consumer Protection FAQs > I have received an unexpected call from someone saying they’re from Microsoft, Windows, or a legitim
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I have received an unexpected call from someone saying they’re from Microsoft, Windows, or a legitimate-sounding tech support or anti-virus software company. They tell me my computer has a virus. What should I do?
Hang up the phone. A popular scam has resulted in many Ohioans receiving calls from someone who claims their computer has been infected by a virus or other malicious software. The scammer attempts to convince the unsuspecting consumer into paying to have the “problem” fixed. Ultimately, the scammers will request remote access into the consumer’s computer, supposedly to install antivirus software to resolve the issues. Remote access allows someone to gain access to a computer through the Internet and free downloadable software. Once you give an unexpected caller remote access, you have compromised any personal information on your device as well as opened the door to malicious software being loaded onto your computer. Protect yourself and your computer by not allowing any unexpected callers remote access to your computer and by keeping antivirus software up to date.