Antimalware service executable locked my computer.

Question

My computer is locked with a number to call. Is that real.

Answer 1

Hi,

It is a tech support scam. Please do not call the number or click on any links they provide. On your keyboard, press Ctrl + Alt + Del, then select Task Manager to open it. Under the Processes tab, right-click and select 'End Task' for all active apps to close the pop-up.

After that, I recommend running a full virus scan using Windows Defender. Additionally, consider changing your password for added security.

Protect yourself from tech support scams:

https://support.microsoft.com/windows/protect-yourself-from-tech-support-scams-2ebf91bd-f94c-2a8a-e541-f5c800d18435

Answer 2

The message on the locked screen with a phone number to call is not real Microsoft support. It is a tech support scam.

Key points:

1. Genuine Microsoft error or warning messages never include a phone number to call.
2. Microsoft does not make unsolicited support calls or ask to be called from pop‑ups to fix a device.
3. These “locked” screens are usually just scam web pages using full screen, pop‑ups, sounds, and sometimes disabling Task Manager to make it look like the computer is blocked.

What to do now:

1. Do not call the number and do not give any personal, payment, or remote‑access information.
2. Close the fake page:
   • Try pressing Alt + F4 to close the browser window.
   • If that fails, press Ctrl + Alt + Del, open Task Manager, and end all browser processes.
   • If nothing responds, hold the power button to turn the PC off, then restart.
3. After restart, open the browser and clear its cache and history.
4. Optionally, install an ad blocker in the browser to reduce malicious pop‑ups.
5. If any scammer was allowed to connect remotely or software was installed, run a full scan with Windows Security and follow its recommendations.
6. Report the scam to Microsoft at https://microsoft.com/reportascam or via the reporting links in the articles below.

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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
• Microsoft Defender Scam or Do I have a virus on my computer - Microsoft Q&A
• possible virus, computer locked - Microsoft Q&A
• Windows defender scam - Microsoft Q&A