I called the number indicated on a pop up scam, what can I do?

Question

I got a pop up alert saying from microsoft, I called the number, which I think was part of the scam, I was told to click the cntrl button with the W key, and then click the leave button

what should I do, I think it was all a scam

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Answer 1

As long as you didn't download anything and didn't allow those scammers remote access to your computer, there should be nothing to worry about.

Here's my standard reply to such fake Tech Support questions... You might want to read the linked articles......

That's a fake so-called Tech Support scam alert/warning which you are seeing in your browser.

"

Remember that real error messages from Microsoft, or other big tech companies, never include phone numbers for you to call them.

If your screen suddenly fills with scary pop-ups you should immediately close your browser (try pressing ALT+F4 if you can't do it with your mouse). If you can’t close your browser try restarting your computer.

"

Suggest reading:

• Protect yourself from online scams and attacks - Microsoft Support
• How to spot a tech support scam - Microsoft Support

Also see the other possibilities listed in this reply: Thread "Blocked computer" page 1: AW's reply on January 21, 2023

To prevent even seeing such fake alerts, use a good content/ad-blocker such as free uBlock Origin.

Answer 2

Some more articles for you to read:

Good information here:

• Beware of Phony Emails, Phone Calls & Tech Support Scams
• Tech support scams: help and resource page - Malwarebytes Labs | Malwarebytes Labs

Also see these Microsoft sites:

• Protect yourself from tech support scams
• Tech support scams

Answer 3

Thank you very much for your help, I did not give them access to anything, but was worried that because I clicked the cntrl W and then the leave button that I was told to do and that might have sent them something.

I reported it, and changed my passwords

Answer 4

You're welcome.

Glad to have helped.