In the last few weeks, I’ve had two calls from customers dealing with the same alarming problem. One was from Hubbard Lake and another from Lachine. Both saw what looked like a legitimate Microsoft Windows alert saying their computer was infected. The message told them to call a support number immediately.
Both customers tried to be cautious. They even Googled the number first to make sure it was real, but somehow every result they found still led right back to the scammer.
One customer trusted her gut and shut down her computer before giving out any information. The other wasn’t so lucky and ended up transferring $29,000 after being told her bank account had been compromised.
This isn’t just a pop-up. It’s part of a browser hijack scam that installs itself the moment you interact with the fake alert.
What These Fake Alerts Look Like
These scams often appear as a standard Windows-style notification, not a full-screen message. They might use the Microsoft or Windows Defender logo, phrases like “Your computer is infected,” “Do not shut down,” or “Call Microsoft Support immediately,” and sometimes play beeping sounds or show fake error codes. They look official, but they are completely fake.
How the Scam Really Works
1. A fake alert appears while you are browsing the web, looking just like a real Windows message.
2. It claims your PC is infected and gives a number to call for “Microsoft Support.”
3. When you click the alert or call the number, the scammer walks you through steps to download or run remote-access software such as AnyDesk, TeamViewer, or Quick Assist. This gives them control of your computer and lets them make changes you cannot see.
4. With that access, they can alter your browser settings, redirect search results, or type fake addresses into your browser so even a Google search looks legitimate.
5. They then pretend to transfer you to your bank’s “fraud department.” That number is fake too.
6. Finally, they convince you to transfer your money to a “safe” account, which belongs to them.
What To Do If You See a Pop-Up Like This
– Do NOT call any number on the screen. Microsoft never displays support phone numbers in Windows alerts.
– Do NOT click anything on the alert.
– Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete, open Task Manager, and end your browser task (Chrome, Edge, etc.).
– Disconnect your computer from the internet (turn off WiFi or unplug your cable).
– Shut the computer down and bring it to Computis in Hillman so we can remove any installed software safely.
If You Already Spoke to the Scammer or Transferred Money
1. Call your bank using the number printed on the back of your card (never a number from your computer or search results).
2. Tell them you have been scammed and ask for the fraud department.
3. Change your online banking passwords from a different, clean device.
4. Report the scam to reportfraud.ftc.gov and to local law enforcement.
5. Bring your computer in so we can check for remote access tools or any leftover malware.
Local Trend and Why It’s Happening Here
I’ve seen several cases of this scam recently from Hubbard Lake, Lachine, and Hillman. It seems scammers are targeting our area more frequently, likely taking advantage of Windows systems with outdated browsers or limited antivirus protection. These alerts can appear on any website, sometimes through compromised ads, so no one is immune.
Final Advice
If something pops up claiming to be from Microsoft, stop right there. Microsoft does not monitor your PC or ask you to call them. If you are not sure what is real and what is not, shut it down and call someone local first.
Author’s Note
This article is based on real repair cases seen by Computis in the Hillman, Hubbard Lake, and Lachine areas. Details are shared to raise awareness and help others recognize similar scams before it’s too late. While every case can vary, the warning signs are consistent. If something feels off, shut it down and call someone local you trust.
Last updated: October 2025