A pop-up says your computer has a virus — is it real?
You're using your computer and suddenly a warning fills the screen. It says your computer is infected — maybe with an alarm sound — and gives a number to call "Microsoft" or "Apple" support right away. It looks official and it's frightening. It is fake, every time, and here's how to handle it calmly.
“WARNING: Your computer has been infected with 5 viruses. Your personal data is at risk. Do NOT restart your computer. Call Microsoft Support immediately: 1-888-555-0199”
Real virus warnings never give you a phone number to call. That number reaches the scammer.
How to tell
A pop-up with a phone number to call. Real security software never asks you to phone anyone.
It tries to scare and rush you, sometimes with a loud sound or a screen you can't seem to close.
"Microsoft" and "Apple" do not call you, and never put a phone number in a warning.
The goal is to get you on the phone, then to talk you into letting them onto your computer.
What to do
1Do not call the number. Never let anyone connect to or control your computer.
2Close the pop-up. If it won't close, turn the computer fully off and back on — that clears it.
3If someone is already on the phone or your screen, hang up and shut the computer down.
If you already clicked or paid
First: don’t blame yourself, and don’t hide it. Acting quickly matters more than anything else.
If you let someone onto your computer, turn it off now, then have someone you trust or a real local repair shop check it.
If you gave a card or bank number, or paid, call your bank using the number on your card and say it was fraud.
Don't be hard on yourself. These pop-ups are built to panic anyone who sees them.
Worth remembering: A real virus warning never gives you a phone number. Any pop-up telling you to call someone is the scam itself.