Anatomy of a Remote Access Scam: From 'Call Us' Pop-ups to RAT Installation (Step-by-Step)
Introduction — Why this matters
Tech-support remote-access scams remain a widespread social-engineering threat: attackers use alarming browser pop-ups, spoofed emails, or unsolicited calls to pressure victims into calling a “support” number or granting remote control of their device. Once the attacker gets remote access — whether by persuading the user to install software or by convincing them to run a file — the consequences can range from stolen credentials to persistent Remote Access Trojan (RAT) infections and large financial loss. These scams are frequent enough that the U.S. Federal Trade Commission repeatedly warns consumers not to call numbers shown in pop-ups or to give remote access to unsolicited callers.
Step 1 — The hook: 'Call Us' pop-ups, fake alerts, and click-to-call pages
One common entry point is a browser pop-up or a web page that imitates a Windows or macOS alert and displays a phone number to call immediately. Attack pages often use loud audio, dialog loops that lock the browser, or even code that triggers the device’s phone app to prefill a number — a "click-to-call" trick that reduces friction and funnels victims directly to scammers. Browsers and platforms have introduced mitigations, but the social-engineering effect remains strong: users see an urgent message and react. Microsoft researchers documented sites that automatically launch the default communication/phone app with a prefilled scam hotline.
- Red flag: any alert that includes a phone number to call — legitimate security alerts do not include support phone numbers.
- Red flag: repeated dialog boxes or audio that prevents normal browser use.
- Action: close the browser or force-quit the app; do not call the number, click links, or provide any personal information.
Step 2 — Social engineering on the call and Step 3 — Gaining access
When the victim calls, scammers pose as technicians from well-known companies (Microsoft, Apple, antivirus vendors) or even government agencies. Their script usually creates urgency: a fake "bank compromise," invented malware, or that an account will be disabled unless the user cooperates. The scammer then requests remote access or persuades the victim to download a program that provides remote-control capability. The programs used vary: some are legitimate remote-support tools (misused) and others install malicious RATs or droppers that provide persistent, covert access.
According to FTC guidance, scammers frequently ask victims to give remote access — then use that access to install software, steal credentials, or charge for bogus services. A Remote Access Trojan (RAT) is a type of malware that can give attackers administrative control, capture keystrokes and screenshots, activate cameras/microphones, and exfiltrate files — making RAT infections especially dangerous and difficult to detect. Practical details on RAT behavior and C2 patterns have been documented in malware analysis reports.
- Common attacker goals after access: credential theft, bank transfers, fraudulent refunds, extortion through stolen images, or deployment of ransomware.
- How attackers hide RATs: disguise as helpful utilities, use droppers, or rely on legitimate remote-support software as a foothold.