How to Avoid Fake Microsoft Security Alert Scams

Here are some tips to safeguard your computer and avoid tech support scams leveraging fake Microsoft alerts:

• Never call unsolicited pop-up numbers claiming security threats. Microsoft will never contact you this way.
• Avoid unsafe websites known for redirects to tech scams like illegal streaming and torrents.
• Use ad-blocking and antivirus software to prevent malicious redirects to phishing pages.
• Verify alerts through Microsoft.com before calling numbers. Official Microsoft pages provide verification steps.
• Check for poor grammar, logos with wrong colors, or threats demanding immediate action. These are signs of scams.
• Never allow remote access from cold-calls or unverified pop-ups. Real Microsoft Support will never pressure this.
• Hang up on suspicious tech support calls. If you initiated contact due to a problem, use Microsoft’s official support channels.
• Never provide credit card or financial details to unsolicited callers claiming security issues. Real support will not request this sensitive information.

Stay vigilant for phishing indicators like grammatical errors, threats demanding urgent action, and requests for remote access without identity verification. Only contact Microsoft via official channels like Microsoft.com, never phone numbers on pop-ups.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Fake Microsoft Security Alert Scam

The fake Microsoft Security Alert scam uses deceptive pop-up warnings to trick Windows users into calling fraudulent technical support numbers. Below we answer common questions about identifying and avoiding this prevalent phishing scam.

What are the fake Microsoft Security Alerts?

The fake alerts are scam pop-up messages that suddenly appear on your Windows PC, claiming Microsoft detected malware, viruses or hacking attempts on your computer. They may say things like “Urgent! Microsoft has detected 5 viruses!” or “Call immediately to stop hackers!”. The alerts look real but are completely fake.

What is the purpose of the fake alerts?

The purpose is to scare users into calling the phone number listed in the pop-up window. But the numbers actually connect you to overseas scam call centers unaffiliated with Microsoft. The scammers try to trick you into paying for unnecessary services to “fix” non-existent security issues.

Do the alerts really come from Microsoft?

No, Microsoft never sends unsolicited pop-up alerts like these warning about viruses or hackers. The alerts have nothing to do with Microsoft and are totally fake, created only by scammers to deceive you.

What happens if I call the tech support number on the pop-up?

If you call the number, scammers will lie and say they detected serious malware infections or security breaches on your computer. They will insist on remotely accessing your computer to “remove the viruses”, but this just allows them to install actual malware or steal your personal data.

Should I allow remote access to the caller claiming to be Microsoft?

No, you should never allow remote access to someone calling about a pop-up alert. Microsoft would never contact you this way or pressure you to provide remote access without verifying your identity first. The callers are scammers.

Can the fake alerts themselves infect my computer?

The fraudulent pop-ups cannot directly install malware just by appearing on your screen. However, if you call the scammers and grant them remote access, they can then install viruses, spyware and more. The pop-ups are meant to fool you into calling.

How can I remove viruses if I did call the scammers?

If you provided remote access, disconnect from the internet immediately and run a full system scan with your antivirus software and the Windows Defender tool. Also change all account passwords that were accessed while the scammer had control. Wipe your PC fully using recovery options if scans find malware.

What should I do if one of these fake alerts pops up?

If you see a Microsoft Security Alert pop-up warning about viruses, close it right away without calling the phone number. Disconnect your computer from internet, run antivirus scans, and change account passwords. The alerts are always fake and designed to trick you.

How can I avoid the Microsoft tech support scam?

Use an ad-blocker and antivirus software to prevent malicious redirects to the fake alerts. Avoid shady websites prone to viruses. And remember Microsoft will never contact you unsolicited about security issues. Close all pop-up alerts – calling the number always leads to scams.

Hopefully this FAQ helps protect you from the prevalent fake Microsoft Security Alert scam. Remember Microsoft will never send unsolicited pop-up warnings and to disconnect devices immediately if one appears.

The Bottom Line

The fake Microsoft Security Alert is a prevalent scam that uses social engineering and pop-up warnings about malware threats to ensnare Windows users. But the alerts are completely fraudulent.

If one appears on your computer, close it immediately and do not call the number listed. Disconnect your device from internet access in case malware was installed. Run scans using reputable antivirus software and the Windows Defender tool to check for infections.

As a precaution, change all account passwords accessed on that device, especially for sensitive accounts like banking, email and shopping sites.

Finally, avoid the website you originally visited that triggered the scam alert. Steer clear of shady platforms known for tech support scams like illegal streaming sites. And remember, Microsoft will never send unsolicited alerts like this. Use discretion when evaluating pop-up warnings to protect yourself moving forward.