I received a scam notice and shut down my computer.

Do not call the number that was shown and do not go back to that page.

Follow these steps on the affected computer:

1. Start the PC normally and close the scam page
   • If the browser reopens with the same warning, close it immediately.
   • If it won’t close, press Ctrl+Alt+Del → Task Manager and end all browser processes (for example, Microsoft Edge, Chrome, Firefox).
2. Clear the browser session
   • Open the browser, but do not restore previous tabs.
   • Clear browsing data (especially open tabs and history related to the scam site).
3. Check for unwanted software or changes
   • If no software was installed and no remote access was granted, it was likely just a malicious pop‑up and the device is usually not compromised.
   • If any software was installed or remote access was allowed, immediately:
     • Uninstall any applications that scammers asked to install.
     • Run a full scan with Microsoft Defender Antivirus and install all security updates.
     • Change passwords for important accounts (email, banking, Microsoft account).
     • Contact the bank or card issuer if any payment or card details were provided.
4. Strengthen protection
   • Keep Windows and security software up to date.
   • Use Microsoft Edge with Microsoft Defender SmartScreen to help block known support‑scam sites.
   • Only download software from official vendor sites or the Microsoft Store.
5. Report the scam
   • Report the incident to Microsoft at https://www.microsoft.com/reportascam.
   • If the scam involved a website, you can also report it as an unsafe site using Microsoft Edge (Settings and more → Help and feedback → Report unsafe site).

Key points to remember for the future:

• Microsoft does not send unsolicited emails or make unsolicited phone calls to fix a computer or request personal/financial information.
• Genuine Microsoft error or warning messages never include a phone number to call.
• If a screen suddenly fills with scary pop‑ups, close the browser (Alt+F4) or restart the PC instead of calling any number shown.

References:

• Protect yourself from online scams and attacks
• Avoid and report Microsoft technical support scams
• Protect yourself from tech support scams
• Tech support scams
• Microsoft Defender Scam or Do I have a virus on my computer - Microsoft Q&A
• Who do I call for support? - Microsoft Q&A