Scams & fake warnings
Scammers copy the look of Microsoft, McAfee and Norton to frighten people into calling them, paying for a fake fix or letting them connect to the computer. These guides show how to tell a fake from the real thing, and what to do if you have already been caught out. Being scammed is not your fault, and it is fixable.
3 guides in this topic
Guides about scams & fake warnings
- A pop-up says my computer is infected. Is it real? How to recognize a fake warning, close it safely, and stop it from coming back.
- An antivirus renewal invoice you did not order? Check it safely Fake McAfee and Norton invoices are a common scam. How to check your real account without the email.
- I let a stranger connect to my computer. What to do now Cut the connection, protect your bank and email, remove their software and report it.
Other topics
- Viruses & malwareCheck the signs, scan with the tools already in Windows, and recover safely.
- Antivirus softwareIndependent steps for McAfee, Norton and Microsoft Defender, and whether you need to pay at all.
- Everyday PC problemsA slow computer, a printer that says offline, and Wi-Fi that connects but loads nothing.