WARNING: Fake Tech Support Scams Targeting Seniors
August 29, 2025 – Placer County Sheriff’s Office officials report that they are urging residents to be cautious and to share this information 
with friends, family, and neighbors who could benefit from it.
We’ve seen an uptick in scammers that are pretending to be from Microsoft, Apple, and other well-known companies.
Here’s how they try to trick you:
- Call you unexpectedly claiming there’s a “problem” with your computer.
- Ask for remote access so they can “fix” it.
- Run fake tests and then demand payment for repairs you don’t need.
If you get an unexpected tech support call - HANG UP.
Legitimate companies will never call you to say your computer has a virus.
Watch out for fake pop-up warnings on your screen.
These look real, use official logos, and say you have “security problems” with instructions to call a number.
Don't call. Don't click. Close your browser or restart your computer.
Protect yourself:
- Never give remote access to someone you don’t know.
- Never give payment info for help you didn’t request.
- When in doubt, ask a trusted family member or call your local police non-emergency line.
Source: Placer County Sheriff’s Office
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