The Fake Tech Support Trap: What to Do When Your Computer Says It's Infected

You're browsing the internet when a warning suddenly fills your screen. It might say your computer is infected, your personal information is being stolen, or your device has been locked. A telephone number appears, supposedly connecting you to Microsoft, Apple, or a security company. The message tells you to call immediately.

Don't call the number.

A frightening browser warning that asks you to contact technical support may be a scam designed to steal your money, information, or access to your computer.

Why scammers use frightening computer warnings

Tech support scams often begin with a fabricated problem. A webpage may imitate an official security warning using company logos, alarming language, or fake scanning results. Some pages play warning sounds or make it difficult to close the browser.

The objective is to convince you that the computer is in immediate danger and that the telephone number on the screen is your only solution.

What to do when the warning appears

First, don't interact with the message. Avoid clicking buttons that say Remove Virus, Contact Support, Scan Now, or Unlock Computer.

Instead, try closing the browser tab. If that doesn't work, close the browser.

On Windows, you can press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. Find your browser, select it, and choose End task. This may close other open browser tabs, so save work first if possible.

If the browser reopens the suspicious page, avoid restoring the previous browsing session. You may need to close the tab again or remove the offending site's notification permissions.

What if the message keeps appearing?

Repeated warnings don't necessarily mean the computer is infected. A website may have received permission to send notifications, or your browser may be reopening the same page.

Check the browser's notification settings and remove permission from websites you don't recognize. If you are concerned about malware, run a scan using your installed, trusted security software.

Windows includes Microsoft Defender Antivirus through Windows Security. You don't need to install an unfamiliar antivirus program recommended by the warning itself.

What if you already called the number?

What you do next depends on how far the interaction went.

If you only called and spoke with someone, stop communicating with them. Don't follow additional instructions or return calls.

If you shared a password, change it using a trusted device and the service's official website or application.

If you provided payment information, contact your bank or card issuer through its official contact information.

If you installed remote-access software or allowed someone to control your computer, disconnect the computer from the internet and seek assistance from a trusted technician. Do not use the potentially compromised computer for banking or other sensitive activity until it has been assessed.

Never let an unexpected caller control your computer

Remote-support software can be legitimate when you deliberately contact a trusted technician. The danger arises when someone you don't know persuades you to grant access.

Once connected, an attacker may be able to view files, install software, or interfere with your computer. A caller's ability to describe your device or show technical-looking information does not establish that they are trustworthy.

How to find legitimate technical support

If you believe your computer genuinely needs assistance, contact the manufacturer or a trusted local repair provider independently. Type the company's official website address yourself rather than using the suspicious warning's telephone number or links.

You can report suspected scams to the FTC at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/.

The bottom line

A frightening computer warning is not proof that your device is infected. Don't call unfamiliar support numbers, install software from unexpected warnings, or grant strangers remote access. Close the suspicious page and investigate the computer using trusted tools.

Sources and Further Reading

Federal Trade Commission: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-spot-avoid-and-report-tech-support-scams