Here’s how they work:

You get a pop-up or other urgent message from someone saying your computer is infected. It might seem like the message comes from a          
well-known company like Microsoft or Apple, or maybe your internet service provider. It tells you there are viruses or other malware on your computer.     It says you have to call a number or risk losing your personal data.

But is this threat – or their problem – real? Judging by reports to the    Federal Trade Commission, no. These are scammers who want to sell 
you useless services, steal your credit card number or get access to your computer to install malware, which could then let them see everything on your computer.

Here’s what you can do:

1. Stop. Don’t call a phone number or click a link. Don’t send money, give your credit card number, or give control of your computer to anyone who contacts you.

2. Pass this information on to a friend. You might know these pop-ups are fake, but chances are you know someone who doesn’t.

Pass it on
Want to know more? Sign up for consumer alerts at ftc.gov/subscribe.
Federal Trade Commission | ftc.gov/PassItOn

Please Report Scams
If you spot a scam, please report it to the Federal Trade Commission.

• Call the FTC at 1-877-FTC-HELP
(1-877-382-4357) or TTY 1-866-653-4261

• Go online: ftc.gov/complaint

Your report can help protect other people. By reporting fraud, you can help the FTC’s investigators identify the scammers and stop them before they can get someone’s hard-earned money. It really makes a difference.