Did a Microsoft warning tell you to call a phone number?

Major warning signs of a Microsoft tech-support scam

• An error message contains a phone number. Microsoft states that genuine Microsoft error and warning messages do not include a telephone number for you to call.
• An unexpected support call. Microsoft does not make unsolicited phone calls offering to fix problems with your computer.
• A frightening virus or security warning. Scam pages may claim your device is infected, hacked or blocked and demand immediate action.
• The browser appears locked. Fake support pages can use full-screen windows, repeated pop-ups, alarms or recorded voices to make the warning look like part of Windows.
• You are told to install remote-access software. Scammers may try to gain control of your computer so they can misrepresent normal system information, steal data or install unwanted software.
• You are asked to pay for an urgent repair. Tech-support scammers may demand card payments, bank transfers, cryptocurrency, gift cards or other payments to fix a problem that does not exist.

What should you do if a warning suddenly appears?

Do not call the number shown in the warning and do not install software requested by the message.

If the warning appeared inside your web browser, close the browser. If necessary, restart the computer rather than interacting with the phone number, links or buttons shown in the suspicious page.

If you genuinely need Microsoft support, go to Microsoft's official website yourself rather than using contact information supplied by an unexpected warning.

If you already gave someone remote access

Stop communicating with the caller and disconnect the computer from the internet if you believe someone may still have remote access.

Remove software the scammer asked you to install, run a trusted security scan, install security updates and change passwords that may have been exposed.

If you supplied card or banking information or made a payment, contact your bank or payment provider using independently obtained official contact details.

What ScamAssessor looks for

ScamAssessor checks combinations of warning signs including fake security alerts, demands to call immediately, suspicious support numbers, requests for remote access, unusual payment instructions, impersonation and suspicious links.

ScamAssessor provides a risk assessment, not proof. A low-risk result does not guarantee that a message, website, caller or support service is genuine. Verify sensitive requests independently.