2 min fix · Related: Virus & Security Cleanup
"Virus Alert" Pop-Up Tells You to Call a Number
It's a scam — don't call the number. How to escape the full-screen trap safely in 60 seconds.
"Virus Alert" Pop-Up Tells You to Call a Number — Symptom Check
- Full-screen warning with a phone number
- Loud beeping or voice warning
- Browser locked, can't close the tab
1. Don't call, don't click
Microsoft, Apple, and your antivirus will never show a phone number in a browser warning. The number connects to scammers who'll ask for remote access and payment.
2. Kill the browser
Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) → end the browser task. On Mac: Force Quit. Reopen without restoring tabs — the page reloads otherwise.
3. Clear and scan
Clear recent browsing data, then run one full Defender scan. If you already called or installed anything they asked, treat it as a real incident.
"Virus Alert" Pop-Up Tells You to Call a Number — When to Call a Pro
- You called the number, paid, or let them connect remotely.
- Pop-ups persist after cleanup or new toolbars appeared.
- It's a work machine — assume breach and get a pro review.
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