Pop-up Ads and Fake Warnings: How to Spot and Avoid It

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

In this guide, you will learn:

• What are Pop-up Ads and Warnings?
• Different variations and content used for Pop-up Ads and Warnings
• How to tell if a pop-up ad is a scam
• Why you are getting Pop-up Ads/Warnings
• What to do if you receive a Pop-up Ad/Warning
• What to do if you’ve fallen victim to Pop-up Ads/Warnings
• How to protect yourself from Pop-up Ads/Warnings

What are Pop-up Ads/Warnings?

Pop-up ads or warnings are unsolicited messages that appear on your screen while you’re browsing the web. These pop-ups often claim that your computer is infected with a virus, has been hacked, or is at risk of crashing. Scammers design these messages to look legitimate, often mimicking well-known tech companies like Microsoft or Apple, to trick you into believing your device is compromised.

These pop-up warnings usually prompt you to call a “tech support” number, download software, or click on a link. Following these prompts can lead to financial loss, data theft, or malware installation.

Different Variations and Content Used for Pop-up Ads/Warnings

Pop-up ads and warnings can take many forms, each designed to trick you into taking a specific action. Understanding the different types can help you recognize and avoid them.

• Virus Infection Alerts: A pop-up claims your computer is infected with dangerous viruses and malware, urging immediate action.
• System Failure Warnings: Messages may claim your system is about to crash or your hard drive is corrupted, prompting you to call tech support.
• Security Breach Notifications: These pop-ups warn that your personal data has been compromised due to a security breach and that you need to contact support immediately.
• Fake Antivirus Alerts: Some pop-ups imitate antivirus software, stating your current protection has expired or a virus was detected, directing you to download fake security tools.
• Browser Hijack Pop-ups: A pop-up may claim your browser has been hacked or compromised, blocking you from closing it without calling the provided number.

How to Tell if a Pop-up Ad is a Scam

Not all pop-ups are harmful, but it’s crucial to know how to identify those that are scams. Here are some common signs to watch for:

• Urgency and Panic Language: Scammers use alarming language like “Your computer is at risk!” or “Immediate action required!” to create a sense of urgency.
• Fake Company Logos: Pop-ups may display logos of reputable companies (e.g., Microsoft, Apple, or your antivirus provider) to appear legitimate. However, real companies will not contact you through pop-up warnings.
• Request to Call a Number: Genuine tech support will never ask you to call a phone number shown in a pop-up ad. If the message insists you call immediately, it’s a scam.
• Inability to Close the Window: Some scam pop-ups will lock your browser, making it difficult to close the window without contacting “support.”
• Unsolicited Downloads: If a pop-up directs you to download software or a program to “fix” the issue, it’s likely malware designed to harm your computer.

Why You Are Getting Pop-up Ads/Warnings

Understanding why you’re seeing these pop-up ads and warnings can help you take steps to prevent them. Here are some common reasons:

• Visiting Insecure Websites: Some websites are poorly secured or host malicious advertisements that trigger fake pop-ups.
• Malware or Adware: If your device is infected with adware or malware, it can cause frequent unwanted pop-ups while browsing.
• Clicking Suspicious Links: Clicking on questionable ads or links in emails or on websites can expose you to pop-up scams.
• Browser Settings: Misconfigured browser settings may allow more pop-ups to slip through, increasing your exposure to scams.
• Online Activities: Visiting free streaming sites, downloading installers from crack sites, or accessing illegal distributions of films and series from unauthorized sites can also prompt pop-up ads.

What to Do if You Receive a Pop-up Ad/Warning

If you encounter a suspicious pop-up ad or warning, it’s important to know how to respond to protect yourself and your device. Here are some steps you can take:

• Don’t Interact: Avoid clicking on any links, buttons, or messages within the pop-up.
• Close the Browser: Try to close the pop-up by exiting the browser. If it won’t close, use Task Manager (Windows) or Force Quit (Mac) to shut down the browser.
• Do Not Call Any Phone Numbers: Never call the number provided in the pop-up. Scammers will try to pressure you into paying for unnecessary services or steal your data.
• Run a Security Scan: Use trusted security software like Trend Micro Security to scan your system for any malware or adware that may have caused the pop-up.

What to Do if You’ve Fallen Victim to Pop-up Ads/Warnings

If you’ve already interacted with a scam pop-up, there are crucial steps you need to take to mitigate any potential damage. Here’s what you should do:

• Disconnect Your Device: If you’ve given remote access, immediately disconnect your device from the internet to prevent further interference.
  ▼ Disconnect Your Device from the Internet

  • Windows/Mac: Turn off your Wi-Fi or disconnect the Ethernet cable to immediately cut off internet access.
  • Mobile (Android/iOS): Turn on Airplane Mode or disconnect from Wi-Fi and mobile data.
  ▼ End Remote Access (If Granted)

  If you allowed remote access to your computer or device, immediately terminate the connection.

  • Windows: Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete, open Task Manager, and end any suspicious remote access applications.
  • Mac: Go to System Preferences > Sharing and uncheck Remote Management or Screen Sharing.
• Contact Your Bank: If you’ve provided payment information, notify your bank or credit card company right away to block unauthorized transactions.
• Change Your Passwords: If you’ve shared any passwords, change them immediately. Use strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts.
• Report the Scam: Report the scam in your country:
  • United States: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/
  • Australia: https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/
  • New Zealand: scam@reportspam.co.nz
  • United Kingdom: report@phishing.gov.uk

How to Protect Yourself from Pop-up Ads/Warnings

Prevention is the best defense against pop-up scams. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself from these threats:

• Avoid Suspicious Websites: Be cautious when visiting unfamiliar or untrusted websites, especially if they bombard you with pop-ups.
• Don’t Click on Unknown Links: Avoid clicking on ads, pop-ups, or links in unsolicited emails, as they could lead to malicious sites or downloads.
• Regularly update your browser to ensure it has the latest security patches and features. This helps protect you from vulnerabilities and provides a better browsing experience.
  ▼ Update Chrome Browser on Windows/Mac

  1. Open Chrome: Launch the browser.
  2. Click the Three Dots (Menu): Located in the top-right corner of the window.
  3. Select Help > About Google Chrome: This will automatically check for updates.
  4. Install the Update: If an update is available, it will start downloading. Once done, click Relaunch to apply the update.
  ▼ Update Microsoft Edge Browser on Windows/Mac

  1. Open Edge: Launch the browser.
  2. Click the Three Dots (Menu): In the top-right corner.
  3. Go to Help and feedback > About Microsoft Edge: The browser will check for updates and download any available.
  4. Restart the Browser: After the update, restart the browser to apply changes.
  ▼ Update Firefox Browser on Windows/Mac

  1. Open Firefox: Launch the browser.
  2. Click the Three Lines (Menu): In the top-right corner.
  3. Go to Help > About Firefox: This opens a new window where Firefox checks for updates.
  4. Update and Restart: If an update is available, it will download automatically. Click Restart to update Firefox.
  ▼ Update Safari Browser on Mac

  1. Open the Apple Menu: Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner of your screen.
  2. Go to System Preferences > Software Update: Safari updates are bundled with macOS updates.
  3. Install the Update: If any updates are available, click Update Now.
• Keep your operating system up to date by installing the latest updates and security patches. This helps safeguard your device against potential threats and ensures optimal performance.
  ▼ Update Windows Operating System

  1. Open Settings: Press Windows Key + I or click the Start menu and choose Settings.
  2. Go to Update & Security: Then select Windows Update from the sidebar.
  3. Check for Updates: Click Check for updates. If there are any available updates, they will automatically download and install.
  4. Restart Your PC: If prompted, restart your PC to complete the installation.
  ▼ Update macOS

  1. Open the Apple Menu: Click the Apple icon in the top-left corner.
  2. Go to System Preferences > Software Update: Your Mac will check for available updates.
  3. Install the Updates: If updates are available, click Update Now to install them.
  4. Restart Your Mac: Some updates may require a restart to take effect.
  ▼ Update AndroidOS

  1. Open Settings: Go to the Settings app.
  2. Scroll to Software Update or System Update: This varies depending on the manufacturer.
  3. Check for Updates: Tap Check for updates. If available, follow the prompts to install the latest version.
  4. Restart Your Phone: If required, restart your phone after the update is installed.
  ▼ Update iOS/iPadOS

  1. Open Settings: Go to the Settings app.
  2. Go to General > Software Update: Your device will check for available updates.
  3. Download and Install: If an update is available, tap Download and Install.
  4. Restart Your Device: If prompted, your device will restart to complete the update.
• Ensure your security software, such as antivirus and anti-malware programs, is always up to date. Regular updates provide the latest protection against new and emerging threats.
• Enable Pop-up Blockers: Make sure your browser’s pop-up blocker is enabled to reduce the chances of encountering these ads.
  ▼ Enable Pop-up Blocker on Google Chrome for Windows/Mac

  1. Open Chrome: Launch your Chrome browser.
  2. Click the Three Dots (Menu): Located in the top-right corner.
  3. Go to Settings: Select Settings from the dropdown menu.
  4. Select Privacy and Security: In the left-hand menu.
  5. Click Site Settings: Under the Privacy and security section.
  6. Scroll to Pop-ups and redirects: Click on it.
  7. Block Pop-ups: Make sure the toggle next to Blocked (recommended) is turned on.
  ▼ Enable Pop-up Blocker on Microsoft Edge for Windows/Mac

  1. Open Edge: Launch the Edge browser.
  2. Click the Three Dots (Menu): In the top-right corner.
  3. Go to Settings: From the dropdown menu.
  4. Select Cookies and Site Permissions: From the left-hand menu.
  5. Scroll to Pop-ups and redirects: Click on it.
  6. Block Pop-ups: Make sure the toggle next to Block (recommended) is turned on.
  ▼ Enable Pop-up Blocker on Mozilla Firefox for Windows/Mac

  1. Open Firefox: Launch the Firefox browser.
  2. Click the Three Lines (Menu): In the top-right corner.
  3. Go to Settings: From the dropdown menu.
  4. Select Privacy & Security: In the left-hand menu.
  5. Scroll to Permissions: Look for the Block pop-up windows option.
  6. Check the Box: Make sure the box next to Block pop-up windows is checked.
  ▼ Enable Pop-up Blocker on Safari for Mac

  1. Open Safari: Launch the Safari browser.
  2. Click Safari in the Menu Bar: At the top of your screen.
  3. Go to Preferences: From the dropdown.
  4. Select the Websites Tab: In the Preferences window.
  5. Go to Pop-up Windows: In the left-hand column.
  6. Block Pop-ups: Set the option for each website to Block and Notify, or block pop-ups entirely from unwanted sites.
  ▼ Enable Pop-up Blocker on Google Chrome for Android devices

  1. Open Chrome: Launch the Chrome app on your Android device.
  2. Tap the Three Dots (Menu): In the top-right corner.
  3. Go to Settings: From the dropdown.
  4. Select Site Settings: Scroll down to find it.
  5. Tap Pop-ups and redirects: Ensure that it is set to Blocked.
  ▼ Enable Pop-up Blocker on Safari for iPhone or iPad

  1. Open Settings: Go to the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
  2. Scroll Down to Safari: Tap on Safari.
  3. Enable Pop-up Blocker: Toggle the switch next to Block Pop-ups to the on position.
• Use Reliable Security Software: Install Trend Micro Security to protect your device from malicious software and phishing attacks.
• Use Trend Micro’s Browser Extension: The Trend Micro Toolbar provides real-time web protection by identifying and blocking malicious websites, reducing your risk of encountering fake pop-ups.