A loud full-screen pop-up — sometimes with alarms — warning that your computer is infected and telling you to call a 'Microsoft' or 'Apple' support number is a tech-support scam. Paste the message for a read, and don't call.
Quick answer — No. Microsoft and Apple never put a support number in a virus pop-up, and a website can't scan your PC. It's a scam to get you to call and hand over remote access. Close the browser — don't call.
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Why it's a scam
Microsoft and Apple don't put a phone number in a virus warning, and a web page can't actually scan your computer. The pop-up is just a web page designed to lock your screen and panic you into calling. The 'technician' then asks for remote access and either installs real malware, charges for fake 'repairs', or gets into your bank — the call is the whole attack.
What to do
Don't call the number or let anyone connect to your computer. Close the pop-up: close the browser tab, or force-quit the browser (Ctrl+Shift+Esc on Windows, Cmd+Option+Esc on Mac) and reopen it without restoring tabs. Run your real security software. If you already gave remote access, disconnect from the internet, run a malware scan, change passwords from another device, and contact your bank if you shared financial info.
If you already paid or shared your info
Don't panic — acting quickly limits the damage. Do these now:
Typed your password on a linked page? Change it immediately — and anywhere you reused it — then turn on two-factor authentication.
Entered a card number? Call your bank to freeze or replace the card and watch for unauthorized charges.
Read out a one-time / 2FA code, or granted remote access? Contact the company and your bank now, and run a security scan on the device.
Shared your SSN or ID? Make a plan at IdentityTheft.gov and consider a credit freeze.
Report phishing to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov (and ic3.gov for online scams).
FAQ
Is the 'your computer is infected, call this number' pop-up real?
No. Microsoft and Apple never put a support number in a virus pop-up, and a website can't scan your PC. It's a scam to get you to call and hand over remote access. Close the browser — don't call.
How do I get rid of a tech-support scam pop-up?
Don't call the number. Close the tab, or force-quit the browser (Ctrl+Shift+Esc on Windows, Cmd+Option+Esc on Mac) and reopen without restoring tabs. Then run your security software. Never give remote access.