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I think I have a technical support scam

Mark Molinari 0 Reputation points
2026-04-30T18:49:14.32+00:00

I need got a pop up defender security message to call tech support, I need a legitimate tech support phone number

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Security and privacy
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  1. EmilyS726 241.2K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-04-30T19:25:18.6933333+00:00

    Can you please hold down Ctrl+Alt+Del, then launch Task Manager, and then end all browser items there to close it. That page is definitely scam, but as long as you didn't call the number and engage in any of the requested activities, your computer is not hacked. It is just a pop up page that can have some audio effect (sometimes) and display in full screen mode, so it appears the computer is locked.

    Scammers use various methods to trigger these pop-ups. Pop-ups are a form of online advertising. They are often integrated into websites or applications through ad services. Many websites use third-party advertising services to display ads. Sometimes, these ad services might inadvertently allow scam ads to be displayed. This does not mean the website itself is malicious, but it indicates a lack of stringent ad vetting.

    You can read more about this type of support scam here: https://support.microsoft.com/windows/protect-yourself-from-tech-support-scams-2ebf91bd-f94c-2a8a-e541-f5c800d18435

    Also keep in mind, Microsoft's consumer report is via chat initiated by you from the Get Help app. Not by phone.

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  2. AI answer

    2026-04-30T18:49:35.9933333+00:00

    The pop-up that told to call tech support is a known type of tech support scam. Genuine Microsoft Defender or Windows error messages never include a phone number to call, and Microsoft does not cold call or ask to be called from pop-ups.

    Do not call the number shown in the pop-up and do not provide any personal or financial information.

    To close the fake warning and unlock the device:

    1. Press Ctrl+Alt+Del.
    2. Select Task Manager.
    3. End all browser processes (for example, Microsoft Edge, Chrome, etc.).
    4. Restart the PC if needed.

    If support is needed, initiate contact only through official channels, not through numbers shown in pop-ups:

    • Use the official Microsoft Support site: go to Microsoft Support and choose the product (for example, Windows) to see the correct support options.

    If it is believed this was a scam attempt, report it so it can be investigated and blocked where possible:

    For urgent situations, contact Microsoft through the official support options listed on the Microsoft Support site or Global Customer Service, and consider notifying local law enforcement.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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