Account Security Problems

How to Fix and Remove a Technical Support Scam Pop-Up

Maira Mehtab Sep 21, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user encountered a fake pop-up warning claiming the computer is locked and instructing them to call a phone number for technical support.

Product: Windows PC / Web Browser
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Browsing the web or using an application when an intrusive, fake technical support warning appears.
Observed behavior: A pop-up freezes the screen or browser, falsely claiming the system is compromised, and demands the user call a provided phone number or grant remote access.

Before you start

Do not click any links within the pop-up, do not call the phone number provided, and never grant remote access to your computer or disclose your passwords to unsolicited callers.

Solution 1Recommended

Close the Scam Pop-Up and Restart Your Computer

Safely terminate the fake warning without interacting with its malicious links or buttons, then scan your system.

A clean Microsoft Defender scan in the past does not mean the current warning is legitimate. You must force-close the deceptive application and run a fresh, comprehensive scan.

Force close the browser

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open the Task Manager, locate your web browser in the list, and click End Task to force close the scam pop-up.

Restart your computer

Click the Windows Start button, select the Power icon, and choose Restart to clear temporary files and active browser sessions safely.

Run a full system scan

Navigate to Windows Security > Virus & threat protection, click on Scan options, select Full scan, and click Scan now to detect any underlying malware.

Avoid Clicking Inside the Pop-Up: Never click the 'X' or 'Cancel' buttons inside the pop-up window itself, as scammers often fake these buttons to trigger full-screen mode or download additional malware.

Solution 2

Review Installed Applications and Update Passwords

Ensure no unauthorized remote-access tools were installed and secure your online accounts if you interacted with the scam.

Solution 3

Run a Second-Opinion Malware Scan

Use a trusted third-party security tool to ensure no hidden threats were missed by the initial Microsoft Defender scan.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Work Securely with WPS Office

While securing your computer from technical support scams, ensure your documents are handled safely. WPS Office is a lightweight, secure, and highly compatible alternative to Microsoft Office, offering a familiar interface without the heavy subscription fees.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and click the download button for the free version.
2. Install the software: Run the lightweight installation file and follow the on-screen prompts to set up the suite on your secure PC.
3. Open existing documents: Double-click your existing Microsoft Office files to open and edit them seamlessly in WPS Office.

100% compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formats.Lightweight installation with minimal impact on system performance.Built-in document security features to protect your sensitive data.Familiar user interface for seamless and easy migration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did I get a tech support scam pop-up on my screen?

These pop-ups are typically triggered by visiting compromised websites, clicking malicious ads, or having adware installed on your browser. They use scare tactics to trick you into paying for fake services or handing over control of your PC.

Should I call the toll-free number displayed on the warning?

No, you should never call the number provided in these pop-ups. Legitimate technology companies, including Microsoft, will never display error messages containing phone numbers to call for technical support.

What if I already allowed remote access to the scammers?

Immediately disconnect your computer from the internet (unplug the Ethernet cable or turn off Wi-Fi). Uninstall any remote-access software they instructed you to install, run a full system malware scan, and change all your important passwords from a different, secure device.

Is Microsoft Defender enough to protect my PC from scams?

While Microsoft Defender provides robust built-in protection against many threats, no antivirus catches everything. It is often beneficial to run a second-opinion scan using reputable third-party antivirus software if you suspect a hidden malware infection.

Microsoft Office Security Issues