Scam re infected computer

D'Anne Andrews 20 Reputation points
2026-09-30T19:56:51.53+00:00

Occasionally a black screen appears and says Microsoft has locked my computer due to numerous viruses and trojan horses. It also says I have infected the Microsoft program and can cause damage if I close my computer. It then says to call the phone number they provide so that my computer can be repaired.

I have been totally hacked in the past, so I'm skeptical of these types of issues. (I have a brand new computer with no back history!) I then go ahead and manually turn off my computer. Usually after a few minutes, I can turn my computer back on and resume my project.

Is this a legitimate event initiated by Microsoft?

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Security and privacy
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Answer accepted by question author
Ferdinand Nanalig 33,400 Reputation points Independent Advisor
2026-09-30T20:35:34.1233333+00:00

Hi, let me help you.

I understand you got a pop-up on your screen with a Microsoft technical support number.

The number that showed up on your screen is not an official Microsoft support number. It’s part of a tech support scam. Microsoft does not display phone numbers for you to call on pop-up messages.

Scammers often use pop-up warnings to trick people into thinking their computer has a virus or other issue, prompting them to call a fake support number. Once contacted, scammers may guide victims through steps to gain remote access or install harmful software.

Here are the steps you can follow:

Run a Full Antivirus Scan: Use Windows Defender or any trusted antivirus software to scan for any malware.

Check for Unwanted Software: Go to Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a Program and see if any unfamiliar software has been installed.

Change Your Passwords: If you entered any personal information or allowed remote access, change your passwords (especially for important accounts like email, banking, etc.).

Check for Remote Access Software: Make sure no remote access programs like TeamViewer or AnyDesk have been installed.

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  1. AI answer

    2026-09-30T19:57:09.9533333+00:00

    No. That is a tech support scam, not a legitimate Microsoft action.

    Key signs from the scenario:

    • Microsoft error and warning messages never include a phone number.
    • Microsoft does not make unsolicited phone calls or display browser pop-ups telling people to call support.
    • Scam pages often use full-screen messages, alarming language, and claims about viruses or your computer being locked to pressure a call.

    What to do when it appears:

    1. Do not call the number.
    2. Close the browser window. If it will not close, try ALT+F4.
    3. If the browser is stuck, open Task Manager with Ctrl+Alt+Del or Ctrl+Shift+Esc, then end the browser task.
    4. Restart the computer if needed.
    5. When reopening the browser, do not restore the previous page or tab if prompted.

    If no call was made, no software was installed, and no remote access was given, the issue is typically just a malicious web page or pop-up rather than proof the computer was hacked.

    If any information was shared or remote access was allowed:

    • Uninstall any app the scammer asked to install.
    • Run a full scan with Windows Security / Microsoft Defender Antivirus.
    • Apply Windows updates.
    • Change passwords.
    • Contact the card provider or bank if any payment details were given.
    • Consider resetting the device if suspicious behavior continues. This can be time-consuming.

    The scam can also be reported at https://www.microsoft.com/reportascam.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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  2. Dio Xavier 296.6K Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
    2026-09-30T21:35:19.83+00:00

    Hello,

    Welcome to the Microsoft Community.

    Good evening. Microsoft does not send this type of message. Your computer is still infected; if you have a backup of your personal data, it is highly recommended to format the SSD and perform a clean install of Windows. Do you have a data backup and Windows 11 installation media?

    Awaiting your reply...

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