My computer says I need to call Windows Defender security to unlock my computer, but not sure I should

Question

Is [MOD phone no removed] a real Microsoft # or is it the virus itself

Answer 1

Hello, Thomas Laubacher

Welcome to the Microsoft Community.

Hello, thank you for your feedback on your issue here, the phone number you mentioned [MOD phone no removed] is most likely a scam call.

Please note that Microsoft's technical support team never reaches out to users over the phone or asks them to call a phone number to resolve a problem. If you see a prompt on your computer asking you to call the number, it's most likely malware or a scam trying to trick you into providing personal information or paying a fee.

How to tell if it's a scam:

Unofficial channels: Microsoft will not notify you of a security issue over the phone or through a pop-up window asking for a call. Genuine technical support is usually provided through official channels, such as the official Microsoft Web site.

Unknown phone numbers and links: If the call comes from an unfamiliar number, or if the support phone number and links displayed on the website look unusual or suspicious, it's probably a scam.

Security warnings: Malware often warns you that you need to take immediate action via a pop-up window, usually accompanied by a phone number or contact information, which is also usually a scam.

Handling advice:

Do not call the number.

Disconnect from the Internet to prevent further potential risks.

Run a virus scan: run a full scan with Windows Defender or other reputable antivirus software.

Also the best advice is to reinstall your system to avoid virus messages.

In addition, if you have already called the number and disclosed any personal information, it is advisable to contact your bank or credit card company immediately to monitor account activity and ensure your information is secure.

Best regards

Bobhe | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

Answer 2

what is the ms support phone number for virus messages

Answer 3

They provided [MOD phone no removed]

I wasn't sure this is goid.

Answer 4

I put my Surface Pro in Airplane mode. Essentially it is disconnect from the Internet. I wanted to run Microsoft Defender per your suggestion, but I can't. The message is "Your device needs to be online to sign in to Defender."

Should I just reinstall the system? How do I reinstall the system? Do I need to be online to get the system installation package? My surface pro came with Windowss 11 pre-installed.

Thank you.

Answer 5

It appears more and more people are getting the Windows Defender window pop up with a phone number to call. I tried running windows defender in a second desktop that I opened up and if found no issues then I purchased Norton and ran a quick scan, then a start up scan and then a full scan and it found nothing. The number on the Windows Defender pop up is [MOD phone no removed] and the warning they give me is that a third party has gained access and Windows Defender has locked down my files and information as a protection.

Now the weir aspect of this is when I open up a second desktop there is no pop up and I am able to access everything on my computer and get onto the internet.

OK Microsoft tech gurus we need your help on how to deal with what appears to be malware that is evasive to virus scans.