Fake Virus Warnings
Your device is infected — call now!
Pop-up warnings, emails, or pop-up ads claiming your computer has a virus. The message tells you to call a phone number or visit a website for "help."
What to Watch For
- Browser pop-ups that scare you into calling or clicking
- Phone numbers in the message are not official vendor support
- The warning appears as a browser pop-up, not from installed security software
- Urgent demand to act immediately before "data is lost"
Examples
""ALERT: Trojan virus detected on your device! Your personal data is at risk. Call Microsoft Support at 1-800-FAKE-NOW immediately.""
Why it works: Uses fear of data loss and impersonates a trusted brand (Microsoft) to create panic.
What to Do
Close the browser tab. Never call phone numbers in pop-up warnings. Run a scan with your actual antivirus software. If you installed real security software, it will show up in your system settings, not as a browser window.