message virus

Question

left computer on when left for awhile and when returned had a full page with video that I should not turn off or use since infected with virus'

said to call Microsoft at 866-203-9964 is this legit or scam cant seem to get rid of it  in browser says ads etc

Answer 1

Hi,

It is a scam.

These scams can use websites to lure you into contacting fake tech support. You may be redirected to these websites automatically by malicious ads found in dubious sites (for example, download locations for fake installers and pirated music or movies). The websites typically use malware in the form of script files like JavaScript or HTML, which can display various fake error messages. The malicious scripts can also put your browser on full screen and spawn pop-up messages that won't go away, essentially locking your browser.

These fake error messages aim to trick you into calling an indicated technical support hotline. Note that Microsoft error and warning messages never include a phone number.

Here are the steps to remove it,

1. Press Ctrl + Alt + Dlt then select Task Manager. In the task manager window, right-click the name of the browser you were using then select End Task
2. Restart the computer
3. Reset the settings of the browser you were using or clear the browsing history
4. Scan for possible virus infection using your active anti virus program 

Note: To Clear the settings of Microsoft Edge

1. Open Edge, select Hub > History .
2. Select Clear all history.

Answer 2

Get a good ad-blocker. Review your browser settings/protecting possibilities.

Personally, I'm a Windows 7 user. My browser of choice is Firefox and I use the extension/addon uBlock Origin which blocks all kinds of unwanted stuff.

Suggestion to carefully read:

• Beware of Phony Emails &Tech Support Scams
• Best Practices for Safe Computing - Prevention of Malware Infection
• Also see How do I prevent ads from coming into my computer?
• https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/wdsi/threats/support-scams
• Tech Support Scams - Help & Resource Page

Answer 3

PS: You might also want to have a look at threads such as:

• Pop up from microsoft support - download Microsoft-patch.hta
• I’m seeing malware detections and Tech Support Scams on the Edge browser Start page

Doing that will hopefully enable you to "get the big picture" ;)