How to spot a printer support scam
Searching for printer help online can land you with scammers posing as “official” support. Here’s how to tell the difference — whoever you end up calling.
Red flags of a tech support scam
- They claim to be HP, Canon, Epson, Brother, Microsoft or Apple, but you found them through an ad or a pop-up.
- A pop-up or message says your computer is infected or “blocked” and tells you to call a number.
- They want payment by gift card, cryptocurrency, wire transfer or a payment app transfer.
- They want remote access before explaining what’s wrong or what it will cost.
- They “find” viruses or hacked accounts while fixing a printer and push expensive security plans.
- They ask you to log in to your bank or show them a bank account.
Our promise to you
- We tell you up front we’re independent.
- We publish our prices and quote before any paid work.
- We only fix what you called about. No surprise upsells.
- Remote access is optional, with your permission, and you can end it any time.
- We only install software from the manufacturer’s official website or app store.
- Card payments only. Never gift cards, crypto or wire transfers.
If you think you’ve been scammed
- Disconnect the computer from the internet and end any remote session.
- Call your bank or card company using the number on your card.
- Change passwords for important accounts from a different, trusted device.
- Report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Want honest help with your printer?
Call for a free diagnosis. If it needs a paid fix, you’ll get a flat price before we start — and if we can’t fix it, you don’t pay.
Open 24 hours, 7 days a week · Prices from $39 · See all prices · Independent service, not HP, Canon, Epson, Brother, Microsoft or Apple.