How do I protect my computer against scams or hacks?

Question

I had a fake pop up stating that Microsoft had shut down my computer due to a hack or malware. there was a phone number (888) to call. I called the number and had a barrage of questions from the woman I spoke to. I did not give her personal info. when I asked if this was a scam? she became defensive. I didn't have time to talk to her long because I had an appt. she said she would call me back. I shut down my computer. when I returned to the computer and turned it on, it was no longer locked. and the person did not call back. so I blocked the number. after some research, I read that Microsoft never locks your computer or puts up an (888) for you to call and this is a scam. Is this common? and what is the correct way to stop it. I do have the antivirus protection on my computer. Thanks

Answer 1

Yes, it is SCAM and FAKE and in general we ask not to call them. You may learn more about how to protect yourself against such incidents, have a look at: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/protect-yourself-from-tech-support-scams-2ebf91bd-f94c-2a8a-e541-f5c800d18435