How to Avoid Tech Support Scams, What Every Senior in Denver Should Know
How to Avoid Tech Support Scams, What Every Senior in Denver Should Know
When “Help” Isn’t Really Help
It often starts with a phone call or a pop-up on your computer that says, “Your computer is infected! Call Microsoft support now!” The voice on the line sounds professional, the logo looks familiar, and before you know it, you’ve been convinced to give access to your computer — or worse, your credit card.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of seniors in the U.S. — including right here in Denver — fall victim to tech support scams. These scams are designed to trick people into believing their computer has a problem and then charge them money to “fix” it.
We meet seniors every week who have been targeted or scammed by fake tech support companies. We’re here to tell you that it’s not your fault — these scams are extremely convincing. The good news is, with a few simple steps and the right knowledge, you can stay protected and confident online.
What Is a Tech Support Scam
A tech support scam happens when someone pretends to be a trusted computer technician — often claiming to work for Microsoft, Apple, or another well-known brand and tries to trick you into paying for fake repairs or giving away personal information.
They might reach you by:
A phone call claiming to be from “Microsoft” or “Windows Support.”
A scary pop-up on your screen warning that your computer is infected.
An email or text message urging you to click a link or call a number.
Once they get your attention, scammers will often:
Ask you to install software that lets them control your computer remotely.
Request your credit card or bank information to “fix” the problem.
Steal passwords or personal data while pretending to run a scan.
These scams are not about your computer — they’re about your trust. Scammers rely on fear and confusion to make you act quickly before you can think it through.
Why Seniors Are Targeted Most
Scammers focus on older adults because they know seniors are polite, trusting, and often just trying to do the right thing. They also assume seniors may be less familiar with modern tech or computer security.
In Denver, we’ve seen scammers use specific local tricks, such as pretending to be from “Comcast Denver Support” or “Best Buy Lakewood.” These fake calls are often spoofed with real-looking Denver area codes to seem legitimate.
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Americans lost over $500 million to tech support scams in the last few years, and the majority of those targeted were over 60.
But here’s the truth: you can protect yourself by learning to spot the warning signs and knowing what to do when something doesn’t feel right.
The Most Common Tech Support Scams Targeting Seniors
1. The “Fake Microsoft” Phone Call
A scammer calls claiming to be from Microsoft or Windows Support. They say your computer has been sending error messages and needs an urgent repair.
They may ask you to:
Go to a specific website.
Install remote access software.
Pay for a “service plan” or “security package.”
What to do: Hang up. Microsoft and other companies will never call you directly to offer support unless you requested it.
2. The “Scary Pop-Up” Warning
You’re browsing the internet when a big red warning takes over your screen. It says something like “VIRUS DETECTED! CALL TECH SUPPORT IMMEDIATELY!” It often includes a phone number or fake Microsoft logo.
What to do:
Don’t click anything.
Close your browser if possible.
Restart your computer if you can’t close the window.
Pop-ups like this are just fake ads trying to scare you. They don’t mean your computer is actually infected.
3. The “Refund” Scam
This one’s sneaky. You might get a call or email saying you’re owed a refund for an old software purchase or antivirus program. The scammer then “accidentally” sends too much money to your account and asks you to send the extra back.
What to do:
Don’t send any money or gift cards.
Contact your bank directly.
Report the scam immediately.
4. The “Fake Email” or “Phishing” Scam
These emails look real — they may use logos from Microsoft, Apple, or Norton. They often say something like, “Your subscription is expiring” or “Your account has been suspended.”
What to do:
Don’t click on any links or attachments.
Delete the email or mark it as spam.
If unsure, contact the company using their official website or phone number.
For more examples, the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) provides excellent visuals of fake emails and pop-ups to help you spot them.
What To Do If You Think You’ve Been Scammed
Even the most cautious person can get tricked — these scams are sophisticated. If you think you might have fallen victim:
Disconnect your device from the internet immediately.
This stops the scammer from accessing it further.Contact your bank or credit card company.
Explain what happened and ask them to block or reverse any suspicious charges.Change your passwords.
Especially for online banking, email, and shopping accounts.Run a full antivirus scan.
We can help with this during an in-home visit to make sure your system is secure again.Report the scam.
If the scam came through email or pop-up, you can report it to Microsoft’s Online Safety Page.
And remember — you’re not alone. If something feels off, it’s always better to ask for help before acting.
How Golden Age Tech Support Protects Seniors from Scams
At Golden Age Tech Support, we don’t just fix computers — we teach you how to feel confident using them safely. Our Online Safety & Scam Protection Service is designed especially for seniors in the Denver area who want peace of mind.
We offer:
In-home computer security checkups.
One-on-one lessons on spotting scams and phishing emails.
Device cleanup to remove pop-ups and unwanted software.
Password organization and protection tips.
And most importantly, we never talk down or rush you. We sit beside you, explain everything clearly, and make sure you feel safe before we leave.
👉 Learn more about how we help on our Our Services Page.
How to Protect Yourself from Tech Support Scams
Here are simple, practical steps every senior can take to stay safe:
1. Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Calls
If someone calls offering to fix your computer, hang up. No legitimate company calls out of the blue.
2. Never Give Remote Access
Never let anyone you don’t know control your computer remotely unless you scheduled that help (for example, with Golden Age Tech Support).
3. Avoid Clicking on Pop-Ups
If you see a scary pop-up, don’t click anything. Close your browser or shut down your computer.
4. Keep Software Updated
Regular updates patch security holes that scammers exploit. We can help you keep your software current with our PC Maintenance Service.
5. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Avoid reusing passwords across different accounts. Use a notebook or password manager to stay organized.
6. Talk About It
If you get a suspicious call or message, tell someone you trust — a friend, family member, or Golden Age Tech Support.
Real Stories from Denver Seniors
One of our Lakewood clients called us in tears after a “Microsoft technician” convinced her to pay $400 to remove a fake virus. We visited her home the next day, cleaned her computer, refunded the charge through her bank, and helped her learn how to spot fake warnings in the future.
Another gentleman in Arvada received an email claiming his antivirus was expired. He clicked the link, and his computer froze. We safely removed the malicious software and taught him how to recognize scam emails before opening them.
These stories are common — and preventable. Our goal is to make sure seniors in Denver feel informed, confident, and protected every time they go online.
Trusted Resources for Scam Awareness
For ongoing education and free resources, check these trusted sites:
Federal Trade Commission (FTC) – Official U.S. government guide to recognizing and reporting scams.
Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) – Excellent visual examples and cybersecurity tips for individuals.
National Institute on Aging (NIA) – Senior-focused safety advice on avoiding scams and frauds online and offline.
Bookmark these pages or share them with loved ones who use the internet regularly.
Conclusion - Knowledge Is the Best Protection
Technology should empower you, not frighten you. While scammers will always find new ways to trick people, staying informed is the best defense. By learning to recognize the signs and asking for help before acting, you can stay safe and confident online.
At Golden Age Tech Support, we’re more than just tech experts — we’re your friendly neighbors here in Denver, helping you feel secure in your digital life. Whether you need a one-time cleanup, a lesson on avoiding scams, or help recovering from a suspicious call, we’re here for you.
Call us today or schedule an in-home visit — and let’s make sure your technology works for you, not against you.
