HOW IT WORKS
It could be an email, a warning screen on your computer, or a phone call telling you there is an issue with your computer.

On the phone, the callers pretend to be from “remote tech support.” They may ask you to give them access to your computer, and then they pretend to run a diagnostic test. The fake tech representative says the problem or virus can be removed for a fee. The goal is to trick you into paying for “support,” often with a prepaid card or electronic transfer that cannot be reversed.

The on-screen pop-up or email similarly warns you about security issues on your computer. It instructs you to dial a number for help or click a link to download antivirus software. It might look like an error message from your operating system or like antivirus software. It may even use logos from trusted companies or websites.

What To Do
Do not call the number or click on the link! By doing this, you may give the bad guy access to your machine, you may download malware, or you may start a conversation you don’t want to have.
Do not assume that people contacting you are working for the company they say they are. Legitimate companies will not call you and tell you that you must pay for tech support. If a pop-up message appears in your web browser offering help, or saying a threat has been detected, it is likely a scam. (Note: this is different from a pop-up window from your security software. To confirm the warning, close your browser and contact your security service through a trusted email or phone number.)
Don't share personal information. Do not share sensitive financial information like passwords, credit card, or bank account routing numbers over the phone. And do not supply a prepaid gift card as payment.
Use strong passwords to strengthen security. Use unique, long passwords/passphrases for your computer (secure password guidance) to better protect your accounts from bad guys.
Install security software. Install and regularly update anti-virus and anti-spyware programs.
More Information
Some bad guys even go so far as to pay search engine companies to have their numbers show up first in search results. Consumers who search the web for a company’s tech support may see these fraudulent results at the top of the page. If you want to contact a company, do it through its official website, the information on your bill, or the product manual.

You can follow these links to learn more about protecting your computer from malware and reporting illegal robocalls.

In general, make sure you only visit trusted, secure webpages and practice good cybersecurity habits online.
Most large or medium-sized organizations that use computer systems (which is just about every organization) hire in-house tech support staff. Smaller companies and private individuals often rely on independent contractors for the same services.

Qualified tech support specialists are in demand, but the work is not easy, often requiring on-call or shift work.1

It is possible to spend a career in tech support, moving up to supervisor and management levels. Alternatively, technical support work can provide a firm foundation for careers in other fields that also involve extensive computer use.

What Are Tech Support Skills?
Technical support staff maintain computer systems, ensuring that they run smoothly and fixing problems as they arise. Tech support staff may also install and configure new hardware and software, undertake regular upgrades, and help other employees set up accounts, reset passwords, and respond to other computer system-related questions. Duties also include maintaining records of software licenses, re-stocking equipment, and staying abreast of current developments in technology.2

Requirements for entry-level tech support jobs vary. It is possible to find employers who will accept candidates without a degree, provided you can do the work.3

Others require a degree but do not care about the type of degree, again, as long as you can meet the other job requirements. In general, though, a college degree helps a great deal, especially if it is related to computer science. Some jobs may require certification, either in place of a college degree, or in addition.

Aptitude for new ideas plus a willingness to learn are vital, due to the simple fact that technologies change so quickly.

Additionally, experience in customer service also helps. Experience or training in recent computer/software developments helps a great deal.

Types of Tech Support Skills
Technical and Analytical
Of course, you need to know how computers, tablets, and other related electronics work and how to troubleshoot them. You must not only understand the systems that you work with but also any new developments in related hardware or software.

While the technical part of technical support is indispensable, it’s not enough by itself. You also must have the soft skills necessary to work efficiently and to work well with others that lack the same experience that you do.

Ability to Learn New Software and Hardware