Scam library · Tech support · Phone calls
Fake printer driver and support scam
You search for help setting up a new printer. A site that looks official offers a driver download, then shows an error: 'Driver installation failed. Contact support.'
The 'support agent' asks for remote access and charges hundreds of dollars to fix a problem that doesn't exist.
What the message looks like
From: Page titled 'Printer Setup Support'
Error 0x80070057: Driver installation failed.
Call certified printer support now: 1-800-555-0198
How this scam works
These sites buy search ads or use names like '123-printer-setup' to appear official. Some copy logos from HP, Canon or Epson.
Once connected, the agent shows scary screens and claims your computer is infected or your printer has 'corrupted drivers'. They sell expensive support plans or ask you to buy gift cards.
Real printer makers offer free drivers on their own websites.
The easiest fix is to start from the printer maker's own site, typed into your browser, or the app built into your computer's settings. Search ads can look like official results, so look at the web address before clicking anything.
Once you're on the phone, the agent may say your printer problem is caused by hackers or viruses and that only a paid security package will fix it. Prices often run from a couple hundred dollars to much more for 'lifetime' plans. Some agents keep remote software installed so they can return later with new scares.
Fake support numbers also show up in search results for printer brands, in fake reviews and in forum posts. A number you found by searching isn't automatically the company's real number. Find it on the manufacturer's website or in your printer's manual instead.
Red flags
- Driver installation 'errors' with a phone number.
- Sites that aren't the manufacturer's official domain.
- Requests for remote access.
- Fees for support plans or 'driver repair'.
- Payment by gift card.
How to tell it’s fake
- Go to the printer maker's official website directly.
- Check the URL before downloading.
- Use the printer's setup app or your computer's settings.
- Be wary of search ads.
What to do if you clicked, paid or shared info
Don’t panic, and don’t blame yourself. These scams are built by professionals. Act quickly, one step at a time.
If you clicked a link or called back
- Close the site. Don't call the number.
If you paid
- If you paid, contact your card issuer to dispute the charge.
If you shared personal info, a password or a code
- If you gave remote access, uninstall any software they installed and get your computer checked.
Where to report and get help (U.S.)
If a message seems legit and you’re still not sure, get a second opinion before you act. Reporting helps stop scammers, even if money can’t be recovered. If you are in danger, call 911.
- Your bank or card issuer
Call the number on the back of your card or on your statement, not one from the message. Ask them to stop or reverse the payment and to watch the account. - Federal Trade Commission (FTC) · ReportFraud.ftc.gov
Report the scam and get a step-by-step recovery plan. - FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) · ic3.gov
Report scams that happened online, especially if money was lost. Include phone numbers, websites and payment details. - AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline · aarp.org helpline
Free, for anyone of any age: trained volunteers help you sort out next steps. 877-908-3360, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern. - IdentityTheft.gov · IdentityTheft.gov
If you shared your Social Security number or someone opened accounts in your name.
How Gmork Scam Guard would warn you
Scam Guard in Chrome and Edge on your computer recognizes fake printer support sites and error screens. It warns you before you call the number or download remote access tools. If a support site seems legit, get a scam expert's opinion first.
Scam Guard can miss things, so the checks above still matter. See what it warns about and what it keeps private.
Questions people ask
- Where do I get real printer drivers?
- From the manufacturer's official website.
- Is '123 printer setup' official?
- Be cautious. Check that the domain belongs to the manufacturer.
- They charged me for support. What now?
- Dispute the charge with your card issuer.
- Do printer companies call you?
- Not to fix problems you didn't report.
- My printer still doesn't work. Where can I get real help?
- Use the manufacturer's official support site, your computer's built-in printer settings, or the store where you bought it. Those don't charge to install a basic driver.