Have you ever received a pop-up warning that your computer is infected or a call claiming to fix an issue you never knew existed? These are classic examples of tech support scams, a growing menace in the digital world. With alarming tech support scam statistics, it’s clear that awareness and education are more crucial than ever.
According to the FTC, tech support fraud was the number one crime impacting complainants over 60 nationwide, with nearly 18,000 complaints and almost $600 million in reported losses. These scams prey on trust and urgency, making older adults particularly vulnerable. The staggering figures underline the need to recognize and tackle this persistent issue.
In this report, I’ve discussed stats related to tech support scams, practical tips to spot them, and ways to stay protected. I aim to help you identify red flags and protect your personal and financial information. Let’s dive in and empower ourselves to fight back against these cyber tricksters!
VPNRanks’ Analysis: 2025 Key Trends in Tech Support Scam Statistics
VPNRanks’ key findings on tech support scam statistics reveal alarming trends, with past data serving as a foundation for projecting 2025 outcomes:
- 📈 Approximately 37,097 victims of tech support scams are expected by 2025.
- 💰 2025 average financial losses from tech support scams may rise to approximately $30,809.
- 👵 By 2025, tech support scams may result in 23,400 complaints and $900 million in financial losses for older adults.
- 🌍 The United States may remain the most targeted region for tech support scams by 2025, followed by Australia.
Disclaimer: These figures are estimates provided by VPNRanks, based on historical data and current trends analyzed through predictive models. They represent potential future scenarios and should not be considered exact predictions. The actual outcomes may vary depending on various factors, including new interventions and changes in online behavior.
How to Spot and Avoid Tech Support Scams
Tech support scams can be tricky to spot, but recognizing the warning signs is your first line of defense. In this section, we’ll explore practical tips to identify these scams and protect yourself from falling victim.
Phone Call Scams: A Common Tech Support Trap
Tech support scammers often reach out by phone, posing as technicians from reputable companies. They claim to have identified an issue with your computer and request remote access to fix” the problem.
After running fake diagnostics, they pressure you into paying for unnecessary solutions to a problem that doesn’t even exist.
According to VPNRanks report, phone scam incident projections for 2025 reveal that US incidents are expected to soar to 387.20 million, while global incidents may exceed 1.04 billion, underscoring the alarming scale of this growing threat.
How to Avoid Phone Call Scams:
- Hang up immediately: If you receive an unexpected call from someone claiming there’s a problem with your computer, don’t engage—just hang up.
- Never share remote access: Avoid granting control of your computer to anyone unless you initiated the support request with a trusted provider.
- Verify their identity: If someone claims to be from a company, hang up and contact the company directly using their official customer service number.
Pop-Up Warnings: Don’t Fall for the Fake Alerts
Tech support scammers often use deceptive pop-up windows that mimic legitimate error messages from your operating system or antivirus software. These pop-ups might feature logos of trusted companies to appear authentic, warning you of a supposed security issue and urging you to call a provided phone number for help.
Remember, real security alerts will never ask you to call a number. If you encounter such a pop-up, close the window and avoid engaging.
How to Be Protected from Pop-Up Scams:
- Close suspicious pop-ups immediately: Use Task Manager or force close the browser instead of clicking on anything in the pop-up.
- Install pop-up blockers: Enable pop-up blockers on your browser to reduce the chances of encountering fake alerts.
- Keep your software updated: Regularly update your operating system and antivirus software to minimize vulnerabilities that scammers may exploit.
Online Ads and Search Listings: A Gateway for Scammers
Tech support scammers often create websites or run ads designed to appear in online search results for tech support. Their goal is to trick users into believing they’re contacting a legitimate service by calling the phone number listed or clicking on links. These deceptive tactics prey on urgency and confusion to lure victims into their schemes.
How to Avoid Tech Support Scams in Online Ads:
- Be cautious of unsolicited contact: Legitimate tech companies will never reach out by phone, email, or text to alert you to problems with your computer.
- Avoid interacting with pop-ups or ads: Security alerts from trusted companies won’t ask you to call a number or click on a link. If in doubt, visit the company’s official website directly.
Steps to Take If You Suspect a Problem With Your Computer
If you suspect there’s an issue with your computer, don’t panic—taking the right steps can help you resolve it safely and effectively. Here’s what you should do:
- Update and scan your security software: Ensure your computer’s security software is up-to-date and run a thorough scan to detect any potential threats.
- Seek trusted support: Reach out to someone you know and trust for help. Alternatively, many software companies provide reliable online or phone support and stores selling computer equipment often offer in-person technical assistance.
What to Do If You’ve Fallen Victim to a Tech Support Scam
If you’ve fallen victim to a tech support scam, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and possibly recover your money. Start by contacting your bank or credit card company to explain what happened and inquire about reversing the charges. Acting quickly can make a significant difference in recovering your funds.
Additionally, if you provide remote access to your computer, update your security software immediately. Run a complete scan and remove any threats identified. If you share login credentials, change your passwords right away, ensuring that they’re unique and strong for each account.
Avoid Tech Support Refund Scams
- If you paid a tech support scammer with a credit or debit card, contact your bank or credit card company to see if they can reverse the transaction.
- If you paid with a gift card, reach out to the issuing company and explain that you were scammed. Ask if they can refund your money.
- If you gave remote access to your computer, update your security software, run a scan, and delete any identified threats.
- If you shared your username and password, change them immediately for all accounts that use the same credentials. Use strong, unique passwords for added security.
How to Report Tech Support Scams
If you’ve encountered a tech support scam, reporting it can play a crucial role in stopping scammers and protecting others. According to Microsoft, each month, the company receives about 6,500 complaints from people victimized by Microsoft tech support scam activities.
While this is a decrease from the 13,000 monthly reports in previous years, scammers continue to exploit not only Microsoft’s brand but also those of other reputable tech companies and service providers. Taking action can help combat this ongoing threat.
Here’s how you can take action:
- Report to the FTC: If a tech support scammer contacts you, file a report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- Your report matters: The FTC uses scam reports to build cases against scammers. Sharing your experience helps them identify trends and take enforcement actions.
- Spread awareness: Inform family and friends about these scams and encourage them to report similar incidents.
- Protect your data: After reporting, ensure your devices and accounts are secure by updating passwords and running antivirus scans.
- Watch and learn: Unsure if reporting makes a difference? Watch this video to see how your story contributes to stopping scams.
Tech Support Scams: Eye-Opening Statistics and Trends
Tech support scams are a growing concern, with statistics revealing the staggering financial and emotional impact on victims. By examining these numbers, we can better understand the scale of the problem and the importance of taking preventive measures.
Tech Support Scams: How Many Have Fallen Victims?
📈 VPNRanks predicts approximately 37,097 victims of tech support scams by 2025, driven by the increasing sophistication of scammers and the growing reliance on digital technologies worldwide.
Data Collection
The data showcased above has been sourced from a Surfshark report, highlighting the yearly count of victims impacted by tech support scams. This data reflects the alarming rise in scam activities and their devastating effects.
| Year of Survey | Number of Victims |
|---|---|
| 2016 | 10,850 |
| 2017 | 10,949 |
| 2018 | 14,408 |
| 2019 | 13,633 |
| 2020 | 15,421 |
| 2021 | 23,903 |
| 2022 | 32,538 |
VPNRanks 2025 Predictions
VPNRanks predicts that the number of victims of tech support scams will rise to approximately 37,097 by 2025, highlighting the alarming growth of this cyber threat. This prediction is based on linear regression analysis using data trends from 2016 to 2022, showing a consistent upward trajectory.
Backing the 2025 Tech Support Scam Projection
- Consistent Year-on-Year Increase: Historical data shows a steady growth in victim numbers, with a sharp rise between 2020 and 2022, indicating a troubling upward trend.
- Evolving Scam Tactics: Scammers continue to develop more sophisticated and deceptive methods, making it harder for individuals to identify and avoid scams.
- Increased Digital Dependency: As more people rely on technology for work and personal use, the opportunity for scammers to exploit vulnerabilities increases, contributing to the projected growth.
Counting the Cost: Financial Impacts of Tech Support Scams
💰VPNRanks predicts average financial losses from tech support scams may rise to approximately $30,809 by 2025, fueled by the increasing sophistication of scammers and their ability to exploit victims on a larger scale.
Data Collection
The financial loss data for tech support scams has been sourced from a Surfshark report, shedding light on the staggering monetary impact of these scams.
| Year of Survey | Average Financial Losses ($) |
|---|---|
| 2016 | 719 |
| 2017 | 1,353 |
| 2018 | 2,686 |
| 2019 | 3,964 |
| 2020 | 9,499 |
| 2021 | 14,545 |
| 2022 | 24,788 |
VPNRanks 2025 Predictions
VPNRanks predicts that the average financial losses from tech support scams may rise to approximately $30,809 by 2025, reflecting the increasing sophistication of scammers. This projection is based on linear regression analysis of past data from 2016 to 2022, highlighting the alarming growth in monetary impacts.
Key Drivers Behind the Financial Loss Projection
- Exponential Growth in Losses: The financial losses have consistently increased year-over-year, with a dramatic spike from 2020 onwards, indicating a rising tech support scam statistics trend.
- Sophistication of Scams: Scammers are employing advanced tactics, targeting more victims and extracting higher sums, leading to escalating monetary losses.
- Increased Reliance on Technology: As dependency on digital services grows, the opportunity for scammers to exploit vulnerabilities and deceive users also rises, driving the predicted surge in losses.
Elderly at Risk: Key Stats on Tech Support Scams
👵VPNRanks predicts a sharp rise in the impact of tech support scams on older adults by 2025, with approximately 23,400 complaints and $900 million in financial losses, driven by scammers increasingly targeting vulnerable demographics.
Data Collection
The data on the impact of tech support scams on older adults has been sourced from the FTC, shedding light on the significant vulnerability of this demographic. These statistics highlight the urgent need for awareness and prevention.
- Nationwide, tech support fraud was the number one crime type impacting complainants over 60.
- Nearly 18,000 complaints were filed by individuals in this age group.
- The reported losses amounted to a staggering $600 million.
VPNRanks 2025 Predictions
VPNRanks predicts a significant rise in the impact of tech support scams on older adults by 2025. Both complaints and financial losses are expected to surge, highlighting the growing threat of these scams.
- Number of complaints: Approximately 23,400
- Financial losses: Approximately $900 million
These projections are based on a linear growth assumption, using a 30% increase in complaints and a 50% increase in financial losses over three years.
Factors Driving the Surge in Scams Targeting Seniors
- Rising Elderly Vulnerability: Older adults are increasingly targeted due to their trust in authority and limited familiarity with modern scam tactics.
- Growing Financial Exploitation: Scammers are developing more sophisticated schemes, enabling them to extract higher amounts from their victims.
- Increased Digital Dependency: With more seniors adopting technology for daily tasks, the opportunities for scammers to deceive this demographic continue to grow.
Global and Regional Trends in Tech Support Scams
🌍VPNRanks predicts the United States may remain the most targeted region for tech support scams by 2025, closely followed by Australia, due to the high financial stakes and scammers’ increasing sophistication in these regions.
Data Collection
The data presented here has been meticulously sourced, providing a comprehensive view of the regional impact of tech support scams. These statistics shed light on how these scams vary across different regions globally.
Regional Stats on Tech Support Scams:
- United States: In 2022, tech support fraud resulted in losses exceeding $806 million, more than double the amount reported in 2021. (Source: Statista)
- Australia: Australians reported losses of $15.5 million due to remote access scams, with an average loss per victim of $17,943. (Source: News.com.au)
- Global Perspective: A 2021 Microsoft survey across 16 countries revealed that 59% of respondents had encountered tech support scams, with 16% continuing interactions and 7% losing money. (Source: Microsoft Blogs)
VPNRanks 2025 Predictions
VPNRanks predicts that by 2025, the United States may continue to be the most targeted region for tech support scams, followed closely by Australia. These projections reflect the growing sophistication of scammers and the high financial stakes in these regions.
Explaining the Regional Projections for 2025
- Consistent High Losses in the US: With losses exceeding $806 million in 2022, the United States remains a lucrative target for scammers due to its large, digitally active population.
- Rising Scams in Australia: Australia’s significant losses, reflected in tech support scam statistics with an average of $17,943 per victim, highlight its growing vulnerability as scammers increasingly exploit remote access tactics.
- Global Scam Trends: Microsoft’s survey revealed that 59% of respondents globally encounter tech support scams, indicating a universal threat, but regions with high digital adoption, like the US and Australia, are disproportionately impacted.
Learning from Experience: Tech Support Scam Case Study
Background
Roxy, a Melbourne resident, became the victim of an elaborate tech support scam that cost her $1.9 million. The scam began when she was contacted by someone posing as a furniture shop owner who persuaded her to invest in an online trading platform.
Over the course of nearly a year, the scammer built trust, leading Roxy to invest her life savings, borrow from friends, and withdraw funds from her mortgage. The scam continued during an overseas trip where she met the scammer in person and handed over more money.
Impact
The scam left Roxy in severe financial distress, having lost all her savings and borrowed funds. The emotional toll was equally devastating as she faced betrayal and manipulation by someone she trusted. This case demonstrates how tech support scams can escalate into significant personal and financial harm.
Lessons Learned
- Be cautious with unsolicited offers: Never trust individuals who reach out with unsolicited investment or technical support opportunities.
- Verify legitimacy: Always check the credentials of a person or platform through official channels before committing to investments.
- Trust but verify in personal interactions: Even personal meetings don’t guarantee legitimacy, as scammers can maintain deception over long periods.
- Consult professionals: Before making financial decisions, seek advice from trusted financial advisors or legal professionals.
Source: News.com.au
Expert Opinions: Insights on Tackling Tech Support Scams
In this section, I have compiled expert opinions on the growing issue of tech support scams. These insights shed light on the tactics scammers use and provide practical advice on how to combat this escalating threat.
1. David Hodgert
David Hodgert emphasizes the importance of vigilance against tech support scams. He warns never to trust unsolicited calls claiming to be from reputable companies and always to verify their identity through official channels.
His recent encounter with an elderly woman who fell victim to such a scam serves as a stark reminder of how quickly these situations can escalate, leaving victims financially and emotionally distressed.
Hodgert recounts how the woman was tricked into transferring money to scammers, who manipulated her screen to increase the amount from $60 to $6000. Despite her quick action to disconnect her computer and contact her bank, she found her system locked the following day.
Hodgert’s proactive guidance included contacting the AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline, securing professional computer repair services, and taking immediate steps to protect her accounts and data.
2. Greg Collier
Greg Collier highlights the deceptive tactics employed by tech support scammers, including fake virus warnings and unsolicited calls claiming to be from tech giants like Microsoft or Google.
These scams manipulate victims into granting remote access to their devices, under the pretense of virus removal. However, instead of resolving any issues, scammers charge victims for fake solutions and may install malware to steal sensitive information.
Collier recounts the case of a Wisconsin man who fell victim to such a scam. The scammers posed as a well-known antivirus company, convinced the victim to pay $900 in gift cards, and left malware on his computer.
This malware enabled them to withdraw an additional $300 from his bank account, illustrating the financial and digital risks these scams pose.
3. Josh Knight
Josh Knight shares his encounter with a common tech support scam. He describes receiving a call from someone claiming to be from BT for Windows,” warning about viruses on his router.
The caller followed a scripted process, guiding him through fake diagnostic steps and requesting payment to fix” his device. Knight explains that such scams often target vulnerable individuals, like the elderly or those unfamiliar with technology, preying on fear and urgency.
Knight emphasizes the importance of recognizing warning signs, such as unsolicited calls about viruses or errors in system logs. He points out that system logs often contain errors and warnings as part of normal operations, making them an easy tool for scammers to exploit.
Additionally, he advises users to rely on free, reputable virus scanners instead of falling for costly fake solutions.
Behind the Numbers: VPNRanks’ Analytical Methodology
At VPNRanks, we use a systematic approach to derive accurate tech support scam statistics and predictions. By combining historical data with expert insights, our methodology ensures a well-rounded analysis of the growing threat posed by these scams.
- Historical Data Analysis:
We analyze trends from trusted sources, such as FTC reports and global surveys, to identify year-over-year changes. These datasets provide a foundation for understanding the progression of scams and their impact. - Linear Regression for Predictions:
Our predictions, like the projected number of victims or financial losses for 2025, are calculated using linear regression. This method evaluates historical data trends to forecast future values with precision. - Regional Insights and Comparisons:
We focus on region-specific stats, comparing data from countries like the United States and Australia. These comparisons help highlight the areas most affected and identify patterns unique to specific demographics. - Expert Opinions Integration:
Incorporating insights from experts like David Hodgert and Josh Knight, we enhance our predictions with real-world observations. These expert opinions validate trends and provide practical guidance for combating scams. - Validation Through Cross-Referencing:
To ensure accuracy, we cross-reference findings with multiple reliable sources, including industry reports, government statistics, and user-reported data. This process minimizes errors and solidifies the credibility of our conclusions.
Explore More In-Depth Statistics and Reports by VPNRanks
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FAQs
What are the red flags of tech support scams?
Red flags of tech support scams include unsolicited contact, as legitimate tech companies won’t reach out via phone, email, or text to report issues with your computer. Additionally, fake pop-up warnings often urge you to call a number or click a link, which real security alerts will never do.
How do I get rid of tech support scams?
If you’ve fallen victim to a tech support scam, uninstall any applications that the scammers asked you to install. If they accessed your device, consider resetting it to ensure their access is fully revoked. Run a full scan with Windows Security to detect and remove any malware, and apply all security updates immediately to safeguard your system.
What is one tactic commonly used in tech support scams?
One common tactic used in tech support scams is phone calls from fake technicians. Scammers pose as representatives from well-known companies, claiming to have detected issues with your computer, and then trick you into paying for unnecessary or fake services.
Who do tech support scams target?
Tech support scams target a wide range of individuals, but millennials and Gen Z face the highest exposure. However, senior citizens are the most likely to fall victim to these scams and suffer financial losses due to their trusting nature and unfamiliarity with digital threats.
Conclusion
Tech support scams continue to grow in sophistication, targeting individuals with deceptive tactics that exploit fear and urgency. Financial losses from tech support scams may rise to approximately $30,809 by 2025, reflecting the increasing scale of these fraudulent activities.
Older adults are particularly vulnerable, often falling prey to scammers posing as trusted tech support representatives. By 2025, these scams may result in 23,400 complaints for this demographic alone. These figures highlight the need for targeted awareness campaigns to protect the most vulnerable.
Analyzing tech support scam statistics provides critical insights into the growing threat these scams pose worldwide. Understanding the numbers and patterns enables us to implement stronger measures to effectively prevent, detect, and combat such fraudulent activities.
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