Tech-support pop-up that ends in a gold-bar pickup
A fake security pop-up claims your computer or bank accounts are in danger, then scammers take remote control and tell you to buy gold bars 'to protect' your savings. A courier later collects the gold.
How it works
A pop-up on your computer is designed to look like a real security warning. It says your device or financial accounts have been compromised or tied to a crime and gives you a number to call. The people who answer ask for remote access, then may create fake signs of hacking on the screen. Next, someone posing as a law enforcement or government investigator says you must withdraw your savings, buy gold bars or coins from a real dealer, and turn them over for safekeeping. You are told to keep it secret from bank staff and family. Couriers then pick up the gold. New York's attorney general warned in August 2026 that the NYPD had investigated more than 100 of these cases in two years, with losses exceeding $100 million.
Red flags
- A pop-up tells you to call a number, or a caller asks for remote access to your computer.
- Someone claiming to be an investigator tells you to move money or buy gold.
- They instruct you not to talk to your bank or your family.
- A courier is sent to collect gold, cash, or other valuables.
What to do
- Do not call a number in a pop-up, and do not give anyone remote access.
- If you are worried about your accounts, hang up and call your bank using the number on your statement.
- Talk with someone you trust before you move money or buy precious metals at a stranger's direction.
- Report the scam at reportfraud.ftc.gov and ic3.gov. New York City residents can also contact their local NYPD precinct. The New York Attorney General's hotline is 1-800-771-7755.
Where to report it
- reportfraud.ftc.gov — the FTC's report form.
- ic3.gov — the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.