Microsoft blocks computer fraud (2023)

What does "Microsoft has locked your computer" mean?

Even "Microsoft security warning", "suspicious connection", "Firewall violation detected', and many others, 'Microsoft Has Blocked The Computer' is a fake error message that displays a deceptive website.

Research shows that users are often redirected to this website by various potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), which often infiltrate systems without permission. PUPs not only cause redirects, but also misuse system resources, gather information, and deliver malicious ads (pop-ups, coupons, banners, etc.)

Overview of the Microsoft Locked Your Computer Scam

The Microsoft Has Blocked The Computer error indicates that the Windows Firewall has detected suspicious activity and the system has supposedly been blocked due to this. To avoid further problems, users should immediately contact a phone number ("1-800-745-9386") Offered.

Then supposedly you will receive help in solving these problems. In fact, the "Microsoft Has Blocked The Computer" error is fake, a scam that has nothing to do with Microsoft. Cyber ​​criminals pose as certified technicians and offer support for a fee (which is not required).

In addition, these people often request remote access to users' computers to install malware and/or change system settings. They then claim to "detect" additional problems and offer further help for an additional fee. Therefore, we recommend ignoring "Microsoft has locked your computer" and never trying to call the old phone number.

This error can be fixed by simply closing the web browser or rebooting the system. Some PUPs and malicious websites run unwanted processes (eg, cryptocurrency mining) in the background without users' consent. This abuse of system resources can result in a significant decrease in the overall performance of the computer. Another drawback is information tracking.

Most PUPs record various information from the user's system, which often includes personal data. The data is then sold to third parties (possibly cyber criminals).

Therefore, the presence of information tracking apps can lead to serious privacy issues. PUPs are also designed to display "malvertising" ads, which hide underlying website content (thus hindering the web browsing experience) and lead to malicious websites, and in some cases even run scripts that download/ they install malware.

Therefore, if you click on it, you risk further computer infections. We strongly recommend that you immediately uninstall all potentially unwanted programs.

As mentioned above, "Microsoft has locked your computer" shares many similarities with dozens of other errors. They all claim that the system is infected, missing files, or damaged in some other way. However, these false claims are just attempts to trick unsuspecting users into calling and paying for technical support that is not needed.

Potentially unwanted programs also have a lot in common. Most offer "useful features" (eg system optimization, antivirus, file format conversion, etc.); however, these programs often do not offer real added value for average users. PUPs are only designed to generate revenue for developers.

Instead of providing any of the promised features, they cause unwanted redirects, misuse system resources, collect information, and display ads, posing a threat to your privacy and Internet browsing safety.

How did the adware get installed on my computer?

In some cases, potentially unwanted programs have official download websites; however, most of them are distributed using the above advertisements together with a deceptive marketing method called "bundling" - stealth installation of third party programs together with regular (mostly free) software.

Due to ignorance and careless behavior, PUPs often infiltrate systems without permission. The developers do not correctly declare the installation of the PUP; they hide this information in various sections (for example, "Custom/Advanced" settings) of the download/installation processes.

Furthermore, many users click on various advertisements and speed up download/installation processes. By doing so, they expose your systems to the risk of various infections and compromise your privacy.

How do I avoid installing potentially unwanted applications?

The key to computer security is caution. To avoid PUP infiltration into the system, be very careful when downloading/installing software and browsing the Internet in general. Only download your software from official sources and preferably use a direct download link (third party download/installation tools often contain malicious applications).

Also, scan each step of the download/installation process to opt out of any additionally bundled programs. Keep in mind that malicious ads look legitimate but are identifiable, as they often lead to surveys, gambling, adult dating, and other dubious websites. If you find these ads, remove all suspicious applications and browser plug-ins immediately.

Text presented in the popup window:

The firewall detects "suspicious" incoming network connections. We recommend that you click "Back to Security".

Screenshot of a malicious website displaying the error "Microsoft has locked your computer":

Text presented on this website:

USE
Microsoft locked the computer for security reasons
Display error 0x0075000xe8 - Do not restart
Call Microsoft Engineer toll free at 1-800-745-9386
Be sure not to restart your computer, as this can cause permanent system damage or data loss.
Microsoft Windows has detected that your computer is infected with viruses and spyware
For support, call 1-800-745-9386 or visit Support.Microsoft.com
If the issue is not resolved, the computer will be permanently disabled
This can happen due to outdated network protection measures. Security or firewall may be disabled
Suspicious activity has been detected on your IP address. Your account will be blocked if it is not corrected immediately.
Call Microsoft engineer at 1-800-745-9386
It is strongly recommended that you call the number above and have your computer checked.

This is what the "Microsoft has locked your computer" pop-up looks like (GIF):

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quick menu:

• What is Microsoft Has Blocked The Computer Scam Website?
• How to recognize an emerging scam?
• How do pop-up scams work?
• How do I remove fake popups?
• How to avoid fake popups?
• What to do if you fall for a pop-up scam?

How to recognize an emerging scam?

Pop-ups with various fake messages are a common type of lure used by cybercriminals. They collect sensitive personal information, trick internet users into calling fake tech support numbers, signing up for useless online services, investing in shady cryptocurrency schemes, etc.

Although in most cases these pop-ups do not infect users' devices with malware, they can cause direct financial loss or lead to identity theft.

Cyber ​​criminals go to great lengths to make their deceptive pop-ups appear trustworthy. However, scams often have the following characteristics:

• Misspellings and unprofessional images- Check carefully the information displayed in a pop-up window. Misspellings and unprofessional images can be a sign of fraud.
• sense of urgency- Countdown timer with a few minutes asking you to enter your personal information or subscribe to an online service.
• Claim you won something- If you have not entered a lottery, online raffle, etc. and you see a pop-up window informing you that you have won.
• Scan from a computer or mobile device- A popup window that checks your device and notifies you of any problems detected; without a doubt, it is a scam; Websites may not perform such actions.
• exclusiveness- Pop-ups informing you that only you have secret access to a financial system that could make you rich quick.

Example of pop-up scam:

How do pop-up scams work?

Cyber ​​criminals and rogue sellers often use various ad networks, search engine poisoning techniques, and suspicious websites to generate traffic for their pop-ups. Users access their online lures after clicking fake download buttons, using a torrent site, or simply clicking an internet search engine result.

Based on the users location and device information, they are presented with a deceptive pop-up. The baits presented in these pop-ups range from get-rich-quick schemes to fake virus scans.

How do I remove fake popups?

In most cases, pop-up scams do not infect users' devices with malware. If you find a misleading popup, just close it. In some cases, scams and pop-ups can be difficult to close; In such cases, close and restart the Internet browser.

In extremely rare cases, it may be necessary to restart the Internet browser. To do this, use our guide to explainHow to reset internet browser settings.

How to avoid fake popups?

To avoid pop-up scams, you should only visit trusted websites. Torrent, Crack, Free Online Movie Streaming, YouTube Video Downloader and other sites with similar reputations often redirect Internet users to pop-up scams.

To minimize the risk of encountering pop-up scams, you should keep your Internet browsers up to date and use a reliable anti-malware application. We also recommendAntivirus Cleaner Combo for macOS.

What to do if you fall for a pop-up scam?

This depends on the type of scam you fell for. Most commonly, pop-up scams attempt to trick users into sending money, revealing personal information, or granting access to someone else's device.

• If you sent money to scammers:You should contact your financial institution and explain that you have been scammed. If you report it on time, there is a chance that you will get your money back.
• If you have provided your personal information:You will need to change your passwords and activate two-factor authentication for each online service you use. VisitFederal Trade Commissionto report identity theft and get personalized recovery steps.
• If you allow scammers to connect to your device:You should scan your computer with a reliable anti-malware (we recommendAntivirus Cleaner Combo for macOS) - Cybercriminals may have installed Trojans, keyloggers and other malware, please do not use your computer until you remove the possible threats.
• Help other netizens:Report internet fraudFederal Trade Commission.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a pop-up scam?

Basically, pop-up scams are deceptive messages designed to trick users into performing certain actions. For example, victims can be scared/tricked into calling fake support hotlines, allowing scammers to remotely access their computers, conduct monetary transactions, disclose private information, download/install and/or purchase software, etc

What is the purpose of a pop-up scam?

Fraud is designed to generate revenue. Cyber ​​criminals can profit from it by obtaining funds through fraud, misuse or sale of private information, software promotion, malware distribution, etc.

Why am I seeing fake popups?

Pop-up scams are promoted on deceptive websites that are intentionally rarely accessed. Users often enter them via redirects caused by websites using deceptive ad networks, misspelled URLs,Browser spam notifications, intrusive or installed adsadvertising.

I can't leave a fraudulent site, how do I close it?

If you are unable to close a rogue website, use Windows Task Manager to end the process. However, do not restore the previous browsing session by reopening the browser; this will reopen the deceptive website.

I allowed cybercriminals to access my computer remotely, what should I do?

If you have allowed cybercriminals access to your device, the first step is to disconnect it from the Internet. Second, uninstall remote access software (eg TeamViewer, AnyDesk, etc.) used by scammers, as they may not need your permission to restore access. Finally, run a full system scan and if any threats are detected, use an antivirus to remove them immediately.

I provided my personal information when I was scammed by a pop-up scam. That I have to do?

If you disclosed your credentials, please change the passwords of all potentially compromised accounts and notify your official support immediately. However, if the data provided is personal (for example, identification card data, credit card numbers, etc.), please contact the responsible authorities immediately.

Does Combo Cleaner protect me from pop-up scams and the malware they spread?

Combo Cleaner can scan visited websites and detect scams and malicious websites. Furthermore, you can block all access to these websites. Combo Cleaner can also detect and remove the most popular malware infections. It must be emphasized that performing a full system scan is of the utmost importance as sophisticated malware often hides deep within systems.