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Tech support Confirmed CASE-2026-0013

Microsoft-style popup locks browser and lists support number

A full-screen browser alert claims the computer is infected and tells the target to call a fake support line.

First reported
May 1, 2026
Last updated
May 27, 2026
Source
Public source ↗

How this scam works

The page displayed a full-screen warning with Microsoft-style language, an error code, and a phone number. It claimed the computer was infected or blocked because of suspicious activity. The browser felt frozen, which made the warning feel like a system message instead of a web page.

The phone call is where the theft starts. The fake technician asks for remote access, runs harmless commands or scans, and claims to find severe infections. Then they sell a repair plan, request gift cards, ask for a wire transfer, or collect card details. Remote access may also expose saved passwords and files.

Real operating-system alerts do not ask you to call a phone number shown in a browser page. Do not call. Close the browser, restart the device if needed, and run a trusted security scan. If remote access was granted, disconnect from the internet, change passwords from another device, and contact the bank.

If this happened to you

First, take a breath. Being targeted is not your fault — these scammers do this all day, every day, and they are very good at it. Here's what to do next:

  1. Stop contact and don't send any more money or information.
  2. If money or an account is involved, call your bank or card company right away.
  3. Report it — it helps protect others: tell us here and file with the FTC ↗.
  4. Tell someone you trust. Talking about it openly takes away the scammer's biggest weapon: shame.

If you're feeling embarrassed or shaken, that's a completely normal reaction — and it passes. You're not alone, and help is free:

  • AARP Fraud Watch Helpline: 877-908-3360 — free to talk it through, even if you're not a member.
  • Recover your identity: IdentityTheft.gov ↗ — a free, step-by-step plan from the FTC.

We compile entries from the public source above. We don't publish private screenshots or message threads. If you report a new instance, please keep the original message, sender address, phone number, links, and any payment request.

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