Online Safety · Plain-language help
Fake Virus Warning or Scam Pop-Up? Do Not Call the Number
Urgent browser warnings that demand a phone call, payment, password, or remote access are commonly scams. Close the page safely and act quickly if you shared information.
Quick answer
Do not call the number, click the warning, pay, or install a remote-control app. Try closing the browser tab. If it will not close, force-quit the browser and restart the device.
Try these checks in order
Do not interact with the warning
Real operating-system security tools do not normally lock a browser page and demand that you call an unfamiliar support number. Do not click Allow, Scan, Clean, Renew, or Download.
Close the tab or browser
Use the tab close button or press Ctrl+W on Windows or Command+W on Mac. If the browser is trapped, use the operating system's force-quit or Task Manager and end only the browser.
Restart and use built-in security tools
After restarting, update the operating system and run its built-in security scan. Reopen the browser without restoring the suspicious tab.
Remove suspicious notification permission
If alerts continue after the page is closed, check the browser's notification permissions and remove unfamiliar sites. Do not install a second cleanup tool from an ad.
Act immediately if you shared money or access
If you gave card or bank information, contact the financial institution using the number on the card or official website. If you shared a password, change it from a trusted device and enable multi-factor authentication.
Escalate a real compromise
If someone remotely controlled the device, installed software, moved money, or accessed sensitive accounts, disconnect the device from the internet and contact the bank, account provider, and an appropriate cybersecurity or law-enforcement resource.
Stop troubleshooting and get the right help if:
- Someone has remote control of the device or tells you not to turn it off.
- Money moved, financial information was shared, or an account password or security code was disclosed.
- The device belongs to an employer, school, healthcare provider, or other organization with its own incident-response process.
Still stuck in the Rio Grande Valley?
Call or text Tech it Easy RGV for patient, on-site help. A standard service visit is $79 for up to 60 minutes. Online times are requests until we confirm them.
What to tell your tech
These details help us prepare. Please do not send passwords, recovery codes, or payment-card details.
- What the warning said and which browser showed it
- Whether anything was downloaded or installed
- Whether anyone was given remote access
- Whether any password, code, or payment information was shared
Frequently asked questions
Related help
This guide provides general information for common household technology problems. It is not a guarantee of diagnosis or repair and is not a substitute for emergency, manufacturer-authorized, financial-fraud, or cybersecurity-incident support. See the Website Terms.