Windows 10: I recently got the whole computer locked scam and I called the number and just hung up....

I'm worried I wad hacked even though I didn't talk to anyone and just exited the program .

:)

 

Is this a scam? Flashing screen saying the computer is locked and I should call the number on the screen.

as soon as I log into my computer there is a screaming flashing screen to say that my computer is locked and I should call the number on the srreen. Is this ligit or a scam. How do I get out of it

* Moved from Community Center

* Original title: Is this a scam

 

Windows 10 Pop Up Scam Window

While using MS Edge recently, I received a pop up that appeared to be a Windows alert.

The alert said my computer and important passwords, phone numbers, etc. could be

possibly be stolen. They listed a phone number - 888-497-7805 and to call.

The pop up also noted that if not called my computer would be locked for my own security.

I did call. I first asked to whom I am speaking. They accent suggested foreign and when

I asked if I was in fact talking with Microsoft they said some other company.

I realized this is likely not a legitimate issue and hung up. I was running AVG and believed that

MS Edge is very secure. I have since added Webroot antivirus.

Are you aware of this type of scam and is there any means to determine a legitimate

MS issue ?

Thanks for your help.

Jim Urquhart

 

Recent SCAM

Unsolicited phone calls, browser pop-ups and
emails (aka
Tech Support Scamming) from "so-called Support Techs" advising
"your computer is infected with malware" or
“All Your Files Are Encrypted" has s become an increasing common and prolific scam tactic over the past several years. More recently, these criminals have diversified their techniques to target customers of ISP (Internet
Service Providers) provider, computer manufacturer, and anti-virus software, especially if your personal information was compromised (hacked) from any of those companies.

Microsoft does not make unsolicited phone calls, display pop-up alerts in your browser to call a support number or send unsolicited email messages to request personal or financial information or
to fix your computer.

• Avoid scams that use the Microsoft name fraudulently
• Is that call from Microsoft a scam?
• Tell Your Relatives: No, Microsoft Won’t Call You About Your Computer
• Email and web scams: How to help protect yourself

If the scam involves unsolicited phone calls from someone claiming to be an
employee affiliated with Microsoft or Windows Support advising your computer is infected with malware,
not answering any questions and hanging up the telephone is the best way to deal with phone scammers.

Since you hung up the phone and did not give them remote access to your computer, you should be ok.

You may want to read: Beware of Phony Emails & Tech Support Scams