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Scam Pop-Ups: How to Remove Fake Virus Warnings from Your Computer

October 9, 2026 · Marion Remote Fix

A terrifying full-screen message says your computer is infected. It tells you to call a number immediately. It might even play an alarm sound. It’s a scam. Your computer is probably fine.

What’s Actually Happening

These aren’t real virus warnings. They’re web pages designed to look like Windows alerts. You visited a website (often through a bad ad or search result) that opened a full-screen pop-up. Your computer is not infected — yet. But if you call the number, scammers will try to get remote access to your computer and either steal your data or charge you hundreds of dollars for fake “repairs.”

How to Close It

1. Don’t click anything in the pop-up. Not even the X button — it might be fake
2. Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager
3. Find your browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox) in the list
4. Click it and press End Task
5. When you reopen your browser, click “Don’t restore pages” if asked

If You Already Called the Number

If you gave someone remote access to your computer:

• Disconnect from the internet immediately (unplug ethernet or turn off WiFi)
• Change your passwords from a different device (bank, email, social media)
• Check for installed software: look in your Programs list for anything like AnyDesk, TeamViewer, or SupRemo that you didn’t install
• Run a full malware scan: the scammer may have installed actual malware
• Call your bank if you gave payment information

Preventing Future Pop-Ups

• Install an ad blocker (uBlock Origin is free and effective)
• Don’t click on ads in search results — scroll to the organic results
• Keep your browser updated
• Don’t download “free” software from random websites