The error claims that the system is damaged/blocked due to a number of reasons (e.g., suspicious connections, usage of illegal/cracked software, etc.) Message encourages users to call fake Microsoft tech support afterwards. Phishing, Scam, Social Engineering, Fraud Furthermore, PUPs deliver various advertisements that conceal underlying website content (thereby diminishing the browsing experience), and might also redirect to malicious websites and/or execute scripts that download/install malware.įor these reasons, potentially unwanted programs must be uninstalled immediately. This information is later sold to third parties (mostly, for marketing purposes). Potentially unwanted programs often record IP addresses, website URLs visited, pages viewed, search queries, keystrokes, and various other data types that might contain personal details. Another downside is information tracking. In doing so, these PUPs/websites significantly diminish computer performance. Some PUPs and malicious websites mine cryptocurrency or run other unwanted processes in the background. This error can be removed simply by closing the web browser or restarting the system. They then claim to detect more issues and offer further help for additional fees.įor these reasons, we strongly advise you to ignore the 'Microsoft Security Alert' error and never call the aforementioned telephone number. Once connected, criminals install malware and/or change system settings. Cyber criminals claim to be certified technicians and generate revenue by selling their services, which are not needed - the malware simply does not exist.įurthermore, after calling these people, users will probably be asked to grant remote access to their computers. It is stated that if the victim decides to ignore the message, all private details (logins/passwords, banking information, etc.) are compromised.īe aware, however, that 'Microsoft Security Alert' error is fake - merely a scam that has nothing to do with Microsoft (Windows Operating system developers).

'Microsoft Security Alert' states that the system is infected and that the user must immediately contact Windows Help Desk (via a telephone number provided) to resolve this issue.

Research shows that, as well as infiltrating systems without consent, PUPs misuse system resources, gather information, and deliver 'malvertising' ads (pop-ups, banners, coupons, etc.) 'Microsoft Security Alert' is a fake error similar to Suspicious Connection, Firewall Breach Detected, Your Computer Is In Blocked State, and many others. 'Microsoft Security Alert' is displayed by a malicious website that users often visit inadvertently - they are redirected by various potentially unwanted programs (PUPs).

Microsoft account security alert