Microsoft Security Alert

Jami McFerren 41 Reputation points
2022-01-29T17:12:31.523+00:00

A laptop gets a message saying it is locked, that the IP address has been used without knowledge or consent to visit with ID theft possible. It says to call Microsoft Security at 1-888-339-0179 and NOT to close or restart the computer. Is this a phishing scam? What is the appropriate action to take?

Windows 10 Security
Windows 10 Security
Windows 10: A Microsoft operating system that runs on personal computers and tablets.Security: The precautions taken to guard against crime, attack, sabotage, espionage, or another threat.
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  1. Reza-Ameri 14,791 Reputation points
    2022-01-29T17:41:48.053+00:00

    This is FAKE and SCAM for sure.
    NEVER call the number , do you see this message on the browser?
    Try press Ctrl+Shift+Esc and it will open the Task Manager and then terminate all tasks and then open Microsoft Defender and run a full system scan with it.

    2 people found this answer helpful.
  2. S.Sengupta 5,871 Reputation points MVP
    2022-09-06T01:27:52.273+00:00

    Run anti malware application in Safe mode.

    Help Microsoft stop scammers, whether they claim to be from Microsoft or not, by reporting tech support scams at:

    www.microsoft.com/reportascam

    You can also report unsafe websites in Microsoft Edge by selecting Settings and More > Help and Feedback > Report unsafe site when you encounter something suspicious.

    Protect yourself from tech support scams

  3. Thomas Burns 0 Reputation points
    2023-03-16T04:08:56.6633333+00:00

    Is there a phone number to call to have a Microsoft employee walk you thru the steps ?