Browser pop-up & tech-support scams
The full-screen “your device is infected, call this number” pop-ups impersonating Apple and Microsoft — and how to close them safely.
How these scams work
A tech-support pop-up fakes a virus infection right in your web browser, then gives you a number to call for “support.” No website can actually scan your device, and neither Apple nor Microsoft ever puts a phone number in a security warning. Call it, and a fake technician talks you into paying or installing remote-access software.
What to check first
- No website can scan your phone or computer — a “viruses detected” count on a web page is always fake.
- Never call a number in a pop-up; real Apple and Microsoft alerts never include one.
- Close the tab or force-quit the browser — the pop-up controls the browser, not your device.
The browser pop-up & tech-support scams we've checked
SCAMPop-up
Apple security alert scam: is that virus warning real?
A pop-up says your iPhone or Mac is infected and to call Apple Support now? The verdict: it's a scam. Here's what it is and exactly what to do.
Read the case →
SCAMPop-up
Microsoft pop-up scam: is that security warning real?
A pop-up says your PC is infected or blocked and to call a Microsoft support number? It's a scam. Here's the verdict and exactly what to do.
Read the case →