In the last few weeks, we have seen a noticeable increase in scams that use pop ups trying to convince you to call a phone number to “fix” a problem. The pop up may also use your speakers to tell you not to turn off your computer and to call the number on your screen. Do not call the number. This is a scam and anything these people say on the other end of the phone is a lie.

Microsoft has commented about this on this webpage. Scroll about 3/4 of the way down to watch a video about these scams or click here.

Also, we’ve had multiple people report pop-ups in the notification center located on the bottom right-hand corner of the screen, which usually look something like the photo below.  Usually it will generate multiple pop-ups in a row and will keep doing it even if you close the ones that have opened.  If this happens to you, do not click on the pop up. Instead, click on the 3 little dots to the left of the “X” and select “turn off notifications for (fill in program)”. Or call us but do not click on pop up or call the number listed.

The hallmark of these scams is the claim that your computer is compromised and you need to call Microsoft or Windows to fix the issue. Also important to note that Macs are not immune to these pop ups.

This is always a scam. Microsoft / Windows / Apple will never ask you to call them.

These pop ups may also start speaking to you through your computer speakers. This is part of the scam designed to scare you.

If you see a pop up like this, you may not be able to close it. The scam often claims to lock your computer or that turning off your computer will permanently damage it. This is a lie. The best thing for you to do is immediately turn off your computer completely. Press the power button and hold it down for 20 seconds to shut the computer down. If your computer is off, there is nothing a scammer can do to compromise it. Once your computer is off contact us via phone, email, or our website so we can give you advice about what to do next in your specific situation. Do not ever call a phone number from a pop up no matter how convincing it may seem.

We have found that adding an adblocker to your browser can help prevent these pop ups. Contact us for quick and easy instructions to add an adblocker to your browser(s).

https://mailchi.mp/75746236b8c9/how-to-identify-windows-pop-up-scams-15636577