If you receive a phone call claiming to be from Microsoft, or see a pop-up window on your PC with a fake warning message and a phone number to call and get your “issue” fixed, it’s better to be safe and not click any links or provide any personal information. Never call the number provided in the error message.
Contents
What can I do about fake Microsoft calls?
Report phone scams
- Help Microsoft stop cybercriminals by reporting information about your phone scam.
- In the United States, use the FTC Complaint Assistant form.
- In Canada, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre can provide support.
- In the United Kingdom, you can report fraud as well as unsolicited calls.
How do I report a scam to Microsoft?
Reporting spam
Microsoft: Create a new, blank email message with the one of the following recipients: Junk: [email protected]. Phishing: [email protected].
What do you do if you get scammed phone calls?
Report Telephone Scams
- Report telephone scams online to the Federal Trade Commission. You can also call 1-877-382-4357 (TTY: 1-866-653-4261).
- Report all robocalls and unwanted telemarketing calls to the Do Not Call Registry.
- Report caller ID spoofing to the Federal Communications Commission.
How do I get rid of Microsoft Security scam?
STEP 1: Uninstall the malicious programs from Windows. STEP 2: Use Malwarebytes to remove “Microsoft Security Alert” adware. STEP 3: Use HitmanPro to scan for malware and unwanted programs. STEP 4: Double-check for malicious programs with Zemana AntiMalware Free.
Why do I keep getting phone calls from Microsoft?
Yes. This is a scam. This is not a legitimate call from Microsoft. Neither Microsoft nor our partners make unsolicited phone calls (also known as cold calls) about your computer security or software fixes.
Will Microsoft call you about a virus?
No. Computer Hope, Microsoft, Dell, HP, Norton, Facebook, or any other computer company will not call you regarding your computer being infected with a virus or having errors.
Are calls from Microsoft a scam?
Microsoft does not send unsolicited email messages or make unsolicited phone calls to request personal or financial information, or to provide technical support to fix your computer. Any communication with Microsoft has to be initiated by you.
Is there a Microsoft scam email going around?
Be cautious. It’s a scam! Scammers impersonate Microsoft and send you an email about update of your account. They falsely claim that you have to “update new version” via a link they provide, or you won’t be able to “process incoming emails and PDF attachments.”
Is Microsoft warning alert real?
Microsoft Warning Alert scam in detail
Be aware, however, that this error message is a scam. Criminals attempt to trick victims into calling and paying for services that are not required. Therefore, never attempt to call the aforementioned telephone number.
Does Microsoft send security warnings?
Microsoft prioritizes account security and works to prevent people from signing in without your permission. When we notice a sign-in attempt from a new location or device, we help protect the account by sending you an email message and an SMS alert.
How can you tell a fake virus warning?
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns that the scareware scam has many variations, but there are some telltale signs. For example: You may get ads that promise to “delete viruses or spyware,” “protect privacy,” “improve computer function,” “remove harmful files,” or “clean your registry;”
Does Microsoft call about hackers?
Microsoft says: “Neither Microsoft nor our partners make unsolicited phone calls (also known as cold calls) about your computer security or software fixes.” More at Microsoft’s Cyber Trust Blog: Is that call from Microsoft a scam?
Does Microsoft contact customers by phone?
Microsoft will never proactively reach out to you to provide unsolicited PC or technical support. Any communication they have with you must be initiated by you. As no legitimate IT security professional is ever going to call you in this way, you should always treat all unsolicited phone calls with skepticism.
What happens if a scammer has your email address?
If a scammer has your email account, you should try to change the password immediately.In this case, you’ll need to go through your email provider’s support page to unlock it again. They typically ask for past login information and may require proof of identity to give your account back.
How do I get rid of Microsoft virus?
Remove malware from your PC in Windows 10
- Open your Windows Security settings.
- Select Virus & threat protection > Scan options.
- Select Windows Defender Offline scan, and then select Scan now.
Why am I getting a Microsoft security alert?
“Microsoft Security Alert” states that the system is infected and that the user must immediately contact Windows Help Desk (via a telephone number [“+44-800-086-9326”] provided) to resolve this issue.Once connected, criminals install malware and/or change system settings.