In an email I received from Janet D., she shared a recent disturbing experience. She explained:
“Windows Defender Security Center caused my computer to freeze and a pop-up that said ‘Access to this system has been blocked for security reasons.’ There was an audio message and a siren.”
Janet did what many people would do in such a panic-inducing situation: I called the number displayed on the screen. She was instructed to press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to unfreeze the computer, but the instructions didn’t stop there. The scammer instructed her to download software from UltraViewer.net, a legitimate remote access tool often abused by malicious actors. Here’s what you need to know if you come across a similar scam:
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Windows Defender popup scam (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
3 red flags to spot a tech support scam
1) Unsolicited pop-ups claiming to be from Microsoft or other security services: Janet’s story highlights a common scam technique: fake warnings disguised as official warnings. Microsoft and other legitimate companies will never issue you a pop-up with a support number or tell you to download remote access software.
2) Emergency audio and visual cues: Scammers create a sense of urgency by using sirens, flashing messages, and warnings of dire consequences, motivating victims to take immediate action without thinking critically.
3) Request to install remote access software: Fraudsters often use tools like UltraViewer, TeamViewer, and AnyDesk to gain access to victims’ systems. While these tools are legal for remote technical support, downloading them at the request of an unknown party is a red flag.
Windows Defender popup scam (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
Don’t fall for the “Deactivate Apple ID” phishing scam
What to do if you get scammed like this
If you encounter a scam, it is important to act quickly and take the following steps to protect yourself and your information.
don’t get involved
If you receive a suspicious pop-up, do not call the number provided or follow the on-screen instructions. Investigate suspicious phone numbers and messages individually. Use Ctrl + Alt + Del to open Task Manager and close the browser or application where the message is displayed.
Assess potential damage
Scammers operate with a sense of urgency. Let’s assess the situation calmly. Janet asked if it was possible that the scammers had stolen any information. Here’s what to do.
- First, look for and uninstall any unfamiliar software that was installed after the incident.
- Check your email, bank accounts, and other important accounts for unauthorized sign-ins and transactions.
- Run a comprehensive scan using powerful antivirus software. The best way to protect yourself from malicious links that can install malware and access your personal information is to install antivirus software on all your devices. This protection also warns you about phishing emails and ransomware scams, keeping your personal information and digital assets safe. Get my picks for the best antivirus protection products of 2024 for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.
Protect your system
If you installed UltraViewer or a similar tool, uninstall it immediately. Update passwords for important accounts and prioritize email and banking logins. Please consider using . password manager Generate and save complex passwords. enable two-factor authenticationThis adds an extra layer of security even if someone obtains your login credentials.
seek professional help
If you still suspect your computer has been compromised, it’s best to consult a professional to ensure your system is secure. Why not contact us? microsoft support Please report the incident for additional guidance and to prevent others from becoming victims.
Windows Defender popup scam (Kurt “Cyber Guy” Knutson)
Your email has not expired. This is another despicable scam
Why Janet didn’t receive a warning from her antivirus software
Janet also said her antivirus software did not report the scam. Unfortunately, many of these scams rely on social engineering rather than malware to evade antivirus detection. They exploit human psychology as well as technological vulnerabilities. However, running scans regularly can help detect hidden threats.
What should I do if I gave my personal information to a scammer?
First of all, this really can happen to anyone, so don’t be embarrassed at all. And the worst thing you can do is remain silent. You can prevent this from happening to others.
Stop all communications. Stop all contact with the scammer immediately. Don’t engage with them further or respond to their messages or calls.
Report a scam: Please report the incident to local law enforcement or your country’s cybercrime department. Please provide all information you know about the scammer and your interactions with the scammer.
Notify your bank and credit card company. If you have shared financial information, contact your bank and credit card company immediately. Be aware of potential fraud and seek advice on how to protect your account.
Monitor your account. Closely monitor your bank accounts, credit cards, and other financial accounts for suspicious activity. Please report any fraudulent transactions immediately.
Notify the credit reporting agency: Consider contacting the credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your credit report. This will prevent scammers from opening new accounts in your name.
Please be careful in future communications. Please be wary of future communications from unknown sources. The scammer may try to target you again using different tactics.
Use Identity Theft Protection. If a scammer has obtained your personal information, consider using a service that will guide you through every step of the reporting and recovery process. One of the best things you can do to protect yourself from this type of scam is to subscribe to an identity theft service. One of the best things about using an identity theft protection service is that it includes up to $20 of identity theft insurance.$1 million to cover losses and legal costs and High-quality fraud resolution team with US-based case managers Helps you recover your losses. Read more about my reviews of the best identity theft protection services here.
Cart important points
Janet’s experience is a reminder that even the most cautious among us can fall prey to sophisticated scams that exploit fear and urgency. You can protect yourself and your personal information by recognizing red flags like unwanted pop-ups, high-pressure tactics, and requests for remote access. If you find yourself in a situation like Janet’s, remember to stay calm, check the validity of the alert, and take the necessary steps to protect your system. Scammers rely on quick reactions, so slow down, stay in control, and don’t let them manipulate your next move.
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