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Beware of technical support scams

Have you ever seen a pop-up message on your device that urges you to contact tech support? It's probably a scam!
System alert: virus detected! Please call XXXX XXXX for technical support immediately.

You may have reached out to technical support when you run into tech issues. But an unexpected call or pop-up window offering to fix a problem you didn't know you had should raise your suspicions.

Understanding how these scams work is the first step to protecting yourself.

What are technical support scams?

Technical support scams are a type of fraud that's becoming more and more common. Tech scammers use different ways to get sensitive personal information or money from people.

The scammers often claim to work for well-known tech companies and say there are urgent issues with your computer or device that they need to fix.

Victims may get tricked into paying for technical support services that don't exist. The payments are often through unusual channels, such as wire transfers and gift cards, which are difficult to trace.

Different types of tech support scams

Fake pop-up messages

You might see pop-up warnings while online, claiming that there's a virus or security breach on your device. These messages often ask you to call a phone number for immediate help, but they actually lead you to scammers.

Unsolicited phone calls

Scammers might call you, pretending to work for major tech companies. They often try to scare you by saying that your device is at risk, and it needs immediate action, or they offer help for non-existent tech issues.

Phishing emails

Scammers might send you fake emails claiming they work for well-known tech companies. They often ask for urgent security updates or account verification. Clicking the links inside those emails can lead you to fake websites that steal your sensitive personal information.

Remote access scams

After gaining your trust, scammers might ask for remote access to your device. They might ask you to install apps so they can control your device, install malware, and steal your data.

How to prevent technical support scams

  • If you see suspicious pop-up messages, don't call any phone numbers or click on any links in them
  • Never share your sensitive personal information with others
  • Don't let strangers access your device; if someone does have remote access, avoid using online banking or anything that could reveal your passwords or login details
  • If you receive a suspicious call or message, don't answer – rather contact the company directly through official channels to verify it
  • Don't send money to bank accounts of strangers
  • Install apps only from trusted and verified channels, such as the App Store and Google Play
  • Use the Hong Kong Police Force's Scameter or Scameter+ app to check suspicious phone numbers, URLs, or receiving accounts

HSBC is committed to protecting your financial security. Think you might have come across a technical support scam? Please contact us at:

HSBC Global Private Banking customers: (852) 2233 3033

HSBC Premier Elite customers: (852) 2233 3033

HSBC Premier customers: (852) 2233 3322

Other personal banking customers: (852) 2233 3000

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