I had a virus in my laptop and I want to make sure Microsoft fixed it

Question

I I had a virus in my laptop computer and I thought I called Microsoft to fix it, but I wasn’t sure it was Microsoft or it was a scam that fixed my computer. I just wanna make sure it was Microsoft themselves that fixed it.

Answer 1

Hi! Let me help you with this issue.

What you might saw was a fake alert that is pretending to be a Microsoft Alert.

If you suspect that your machine is still infected with viruses, please follow the steps below.

Please follow the steps below on how to scan your machine further.

Please also try Microsoft Safety Scanner - https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/security/intelligence/safety-scanner-download?view=o365-worldwide

And follow these additional steps.

Uninstall an unwanted application in Programs and Features.

Go to Start, type in Control Panel, then go to Programs and then Programs and Features, then go to the list of programs, look for anything unusual or any application that you are not aware right click then uninstall it.

Delete Temporary files on Windows 10.

Tap the Windows Key, then R on your keyboard, in the Run box type in %temp%, then press Enter.

Once it is up, highlight all then delete, if there is a filé open that can't be deleted, just skip it.

I hope this helps.

If the above scanner did not detect any, please use these 3rd party tools.

Let's try downloading the free version of Malwarebytes, it is a freeware that you can use to scan, detect, and delete viruses like the one you currently have.

You can download the free version from this link

https://www.malwarebytes.com/

Once installed, please make a full scan. You may remove this software once you are done with it.

You can also try an online malware scanner - https://www.eset.com/int/home/online-scanner/

URL Disclaimer: Please read.

Note: This is a non-Microsoft website. The page appears to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the site that may advertise products frequently classified as PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the site before you decide to download and install it.

Answer 2

If you suspect that you called a scammer instead of Microsoft for support, it is important to be cautious. Microsoft does not make unsolicited calls or ask for remote access to your device. If you initiated the contact with a legitimate Microsoft support channel, then it would be safe to assume they helped you. However, if you received unsolicited calls or messages asking for personal information or payment, it is likely a scam.

To ensure your device is secure, you can run a full scan with Microsoft Defender Antivirus to check for any remaining threats. Additionally, if you provided any personal information to a suspected scammer, consider changing your passwords and monitoring your accounts for unusual activity.

For future reference, always initiate contact with Microsoft through their official support channels rather than responding to unsolicited requests.

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References:

• Tech support scams
• Who do I call for support?