That Virus Warning Telling You to Call a Number Is Probably a Scam

If a pop-up suddenly says your computer is infected and tells you to call a phone number for support, don't call the number.

The Federal Trade Commission specifically warns that legitimate security pop-ups don't tell you to call a phone number.

What the scam is trying to do

The warning may use alarming colors, fake scans, countdowns, sirens, company logos, or messages claiming your files or bank account are at immediate risk.

The goal is usually to make you panic before you have time to think.

If you call, the person answering may ask for remote access to your computer, claim to find infections, demand payment, or try to obtain financial information.

The FTC warns that tech-support scammers use these tactics.

What to do instead

Don't call the displayed number.

Don't give the caller remote access.

Don't enter payment information.

Don't install software the warning tells you to install.

Close the browser tab or browser.

If the page makes normal closing difficult, use your operating system's normal method for force-closing the browser, then reopen it without restoring the suspicious page if possible.

If you already called

If you only spoke to the scammer but didn't give them information or access, end the conversation and block further contact.

If you gave them remote access, disconnect the computer from the network and seek help from a trusted technician or the legitimate support channel for your device.

If you disclosed a password, change it using a clean, trusted device and change it anywhere else you reused it.

If you paid, contact the payment provider or financial institution promptly and explain what happened.

The FTC also accepts scam reports through its official fraud-reporting system.

How to avoid the next one

Real security problems do exist.

The important distinction is that a frightening webpage is not automatically trustworthy simply because it knows how to display a familiar company logo.

When you need support, navigate independently to the company's official support site rather than using a phone number supplied by an unexpected warning.

Sources and Further Reading

FTC Consumer Advice: How To Spot, Avoid, and Report Tech Support Scams — https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-spot-avoid-and-report-tech-support-scams

FTC Consumer Advice: Online Scams — https://consumer.ftc.gov/online-scams