Security Alert: The "Fake Virus" Pop-up and Browser Hijack

Cyber criminals have moved beyond simple email attachments and are now utilizing aggressive "Browser Hijacks" to target users. This threat is particularly jarring because it often occurs while visiting completely legitimate websites, such as news outlets, social media platforms, or weather sites.

How the Scam Unfolds: The attack typically begins when you are browsing the internet as usual. You do not need to visit a "bad" website to trigger this. Criminals buy ad space on reputable websites (a technique called "Malvertising"). When your browser loads the page, the malicious ad script executes, instantly hijacking your web browser/screen.

The "Infection" Theater: Suddenly, your web browser may freeze, go into full-screen mode, or begin blasting a loud siren or robotic voice. The screen will display terrifying warnings claiming your computer is infected with a virus, trojan, or spyware. These pop-ups are designed to look exactly like official warnings from Microsoft Windows, Apple Support, or McAfee, often complete with official logos and branding.

The Trap: The goal of this hijack is to induce panic. The frozen screen will urge you to call a "Support Number" immediately to prevent data loss or legal action. Alternatively, you may see repeated pop-up notifications in the corner of your screen telling you your system is damaged. **THIS IS A LIE.** Your computer is likely not infected; the browser has simply been locked by a script to prevent you from closing the tab or web browser.

The Goal: If you call the number on the screen, you will not be speaking to Microsoft or Apple; you will be speaking to a scammer. They will ask to remotely connect to your computer to "fix" the non-existent virus. Once they have access, they will either steal your personal banking information or charge you hundreds of dollars for useless software to remove the "infection" they created.

How to Spot and Stop It:

• Don't Panic, It's Just a Script: Real viruses prefer to stay hidden. If a screen is screaming at you, flashing red lights, or demanding you call a phone number, it is a scam. Microsoft and Apple never include phone numbers on error messages (Blue Screens of Death).
• Do Not Click Inside the Page: The script often traps your mouse cursor. If you cannot close the tab or the browser normally, do not click the buttons on the page. Instead, press Ctrl + Alt + Delete (Windows) to open Task Manager and "End Task" on your web browser. If that fails, hold your computer's power button down until it shuts off.
• Silence the Notifications: If you are seeing small pop-ups in the corner of your screen even when the browser is closed, you likely clicked "Allow" on a notification request in the past. This is not a virus. You can stop these by going into your browser settings (Privacy & Security) and "Revoking" notification permissions for unknown websites.
• The Golden Rule: Never call a phone number provided in a browser pop-up. If you are truly concerned about the health of your computer, close the browser immediately and contact our internal IT department. We can verify your safety in minutes.