Pop-ups, scam warnings or a suspected virus

A pop-up says your computer is infected and to call a number

This is a scam. Microsoft and Australian Computer Traders will never show a pop-up asking you to call.

1. Don't call the number, and don't let anyone connect to your computer.
2. Close the browser. If it won't close, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc, select the browser and select End task.
3. Reopen the browser, and don't restore the previous tabs.

Already called, or let someone connect?

1. Disconnect from the internet.
2. Uninstall any remote access program they installed, such as AnyDesk, TeamViewer or UltraViewer: Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
3. If you shared bank details or paid them, contact your bank straight away.
4. From another device, change your email and banking passwords.
5. Report it at Scamwatch.

Constant ads or notifications in the corner of the screen

These usually come from a website you allowed to send notifications.

• Edge: Settings > Cookies and site permissions > Notifications, then remove sites you don't recognise.
• Chrome: Settings > Privacy and security > Site settings > Notifications, then remove sites.
• Remove browser extensions you didn't add, or reset the browser's settings.

Scan for malware

1. Open Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Scan options.
2. Run a Full scan.
3. If anything is found, run a Microsoft Defender Offline scan from the same page. The computer restarts to run it.
4. In Settings > Apps > Installed apps, sort by install date and uninstall anything you don't recognise.

Windows Security is built in and protects most home users well, so you don't need extra antivirus. Virus removal isn't covered by warranty, but our East Brisbane store can clean an infected computer.