Spot and report tech support scams
A pop-up or phone call claims your computer is infected and asks for payment or remote access. Real companies do not work this way. Know the warning signs before you click or call.
Not sure if a call was real? Ask us, it's free- FTC
Spotting and avoiding tech support scams (opens in a new tab)
The tactics scammers use by phone, pop-up and search ad, plus what to do if you already gave them access or money.
- FTC
How to recognize and avoid phishing scams (opens in a new tab)
Fake emails and texts that try to steal logins. Learn the red flags in under five minutes.
- FTC
Report a scam at ReportFraud.ftc.gov (opens in a new tab)
Already targeted? Reporting helps investigators stop the people behind it.
Viruses and malware: what to do first
Slow performance, strange pop-ups or a changed browser home page can all point to malware. Run through the basics first. If the problem keeps coming back, it needs a proper cleanup.
See our virus and malware removal service- FTC
Malware: how to protect against, detect, and remove it (opens in a new tab)
Signs your device is infected, steps to clean it, and habits that keep it from happening again.
- CISA
Recognize and report phishing (opens in a new tab)
Most infections start with a click. This guide from the US cyber defense agency shows how to stop it.
Back up before something goes wrong
A failed drive, ransomware or a spilled coffee can wipe out years of photos and files. A backup you have tested is the cheapest protection there is.
Learn about our backups and system cloning- CISA
Back up business data (opens in a new tab)
A simple three-step backup plan for small businesses, and why regular backups are one of the best defenses against ransomware.
Lock down your passwords and accounts
Two habits stop most account takeovers: long unique passwords and a second sign-in step.
- CISA
Use strong passwords (opens in a new tab)
How to create long, random, unique passwords and keep track of them with a password manager.
- CISA
Turn on multifactor authentication (opens in a new tab)
Add a second step to your important accounts so a stolen password alone is not enough.
Your computer safety checklist
Fifteen quick checks across five areas. Tick each one as you go. Your progress is saved on this device only and is never sent anywhere.
0 of 15 done
Start ticking boxes to see how your setup measures up.
Still have questions?
See answers on pricing, remote sessions, drop-off and more.
External links open guides on government websites that we do not control. We review them regularly. Last reviewed November 2026.
Need a real person to take a look?
Remote repair anywhere in the US, or drop-off at our Parkville, MD shop. Your first call is free and you get a price before anything is scheduled.