Tech support scams have been around for a long time, and nearly everyone who has owned a computer in the past decade has encountered one. This is one of the oldest tricks in the book, where scammers call potential victims and try to gain access to their computers and steal all of their data.

But what most people don’t realize is that, like every other scam, tech support scams have changed and evolved over time. Nowadays, it’s not what people think, so let’s talk about Tech Support Scam 2.0.

The Origins of Tech Support Scams
When we think of tech support scams, most people remember that old phone call. "Hello, this is tech support. We have detected a severe virus infection on your computer..." This has been the hallmark of a classic tech support scam for years. These clumsy attempts to scare users into paying for bogus repairs have worked in the past, but over time they have become easier to spot. Since this was one of the most common tech scams at the time, many people learned to hang up on such calls immediately.

But as our technology gets smarter, so do the criminals who try to exploit it. Tech support scams have evolved over time. Now, we're in the age of tech support scam 2.0, where one wrong click or a moment of panic can have devastating consequences.

The new face of scams: fewer calls, more traps
In the past, tech support scammers relied on aggressive cold calls in hopes of catching gullible users. While there are still scammers doing the same old tricks, now a new generation of scammers are taking a different approach. Instead of contacting their victims directly, they set up complex traps and wait for us to find them.

Pop-ups and browser hijacking. These pop-ups are probably one of the most common variations of tech support scams, where unsuspecting victims are simply browsing the web and suddenly receive a warning that says something like, "The system is about to crash." These fake system errors and warnings escalate dramatically, mimicking legitimate alerts to trick victims into asking for "help" and getting in touch with scammers. Malvertising. Even seemingly harmless ads can be dangerous. Banners promising "free computer cleaning" or "emergency system updates" often redirect to scam sites or initiate downloads containing malware. Variation of phishing. Scammers are getting smarter and phishing is no longer what it used to be. They no longer send poorly written emails filled with typos. Instead, they pretend to be a familiar bank, the software provider you use, or a popular streaming service. All of these messages claim that your account has been locked, that there are some suspicious accusations, or that there are urgent updates that require your attention. Once you click on the link or call the number, you will be directed to the fake support hotline. Not just Windows anymore
In the original tech support scam, Windows users were the only ones targeted. Cold call scammers almost always claim they are from Windows Support. But things have changed again, and the scam has expanded far beyond Windows computers.

Of course, scammers haven't forgotten about Windows users, but their reach has now expanded to almost any device with an Internet connection.

Apple devices were once considered the most secure, and Macs were trusted not to crash. But now, even Apple computers are flooded with these fake system warnings and other malicious pop-ups.

Smartphones and tablets are also not safe. While Android's open nature makes it more vulnerable, even iOS users can be targeted. All it takes is downloading one malicious app from an unofficial source and you're in trouble.

Data as the new currency
While the initial goal of many tech support scams is to sell worthless fixes at outrageous prices, the focus has shifted to something more valuable—the keys to your digital life. In other words, they are looking for your data.

Steal passwords. Whether through hidden keyloggers, fake login screens or social engineering tactics, getting you to give up your passwords is now a priority. These modern technology support scammers will steal your banking, email and social media login information. Get payment details. Manipulating victims into entering payment information on a scam website, or under the guise of paying for fake support, is an old tactic that still works. This applies especially to the older generation. Identity theft. One of the most sinister end goals of these scams is identity theft, and most tech support scammers aim to obtain your personal information. If they get their hands on your name, address and Social Security number, they could cause long-term harm. Install invisible threats. The scariest part of modern tech support scams are often the backdoors they install. Remote access tools give scammers control of your device, allowing them to monitor everything you do and launch further attacks. final thoughts
One thing we all need to remember is that scams never go away, they just evolve into new, scarier versions. Scammers are always trying to stay one step ahead of their victims, which is why it's important to understand how these old scams have evolved and grown over time. This is the only way we can stay protected and know what warning signs to look out for.