severe security alert

Question

I received a rather severe alert saying that my pc has infected etc. I was to call a 866-3543980 number. I think this is a scam, do you?

Answer 1

When you receive pop up like that, hold down Ctrl+Alt+Del, then launch Task Manager, and then end all browser items there to close it. That page is definitely scam, but as long as you didn't call the number and engage in any of the requested activities, your computer is not hacked. It is just a pop up page that can have some audio effect (sometimes) and display in full screen mode, so it appears the computer is locked.

Scammers use various methods to trigger these pop-ups. Pop-ups are a form of online advertising. They are often integrated into websites or applications through ad services. Many websites use third-party advertising services to display ads. Sometimes, these ad services might inadvertently allow scam ads to be displayed. This does not mean the website itself is malicious, but it indicates a lack of stringent ad vetting.

You can read more about this type of support scam here: https://support.microsoft.com/windows/protect-yourself-from-tech-support-scams-2ebf91bd-f94c-2a8a-e541-f5c800d18435

Answer 2

The alert instructing to call 866-354-3980 is consistent with a tech support scam.

Key points that indicate a scam:

1. Genuine Microsoft or Windows error messages never include a phone number to call.
2. Microsoft and other legitimate tech companies do not cold call or ask to be called from random pop‑ups or alerts to fix “infections.”
3. Scam sites often:
   • Show full‑screen fake error or “blue screen” messages
   • Play alarming audio
   • Continuously show pop‑ups that appear to lock the browser
   • Urge calling a “support” number immediately

What to do now:

1. Do not call the number, click any links, or provide any personal or payment information.
2. Close the browser showing the alert:
   • Press ALT + F4 to close the window; if that fails, restart the PC.
3. If any unknown software was installed or remote access was granted, disconnect from the internet and run a full security scan with trusted security software.
4. Report the scam attempt to Microsoft at https://www.microsoft.com/reportascam.

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References:

• Protect yourself from tech support scams
• Avoid and report Microsoft technical support scams
• Protect yourself from online scams and attacks
• Tech support scams