Applicable for: Mac;Windows
Fake virus alerts are a deceptive cybersecurity threats designed by today’s hackers to try to deliver different types of malware onto a potentially vulnerable device. And though we’d like to think it’s as easy as simply closing the window, sometimes it takes more than that to get rid of pop-up viruses.
Fake virus alerts have two motives: to get you to click on an infected link triggering a drive-by download or continue to a fake website and purchase antivirus software that doesn’t exist. And similar to cyberattacks like phishing and smishing, these phony virus alerts often come with urgent messages meant to scare victims into making irrational decisions.
When it comes to fake virus scams, always avoid clicking on any part of the message. Simply close the screen. And if they keep appearing, you can use the removal tips below to get your device back to normal.
A common question internet users ask is, “What do fake virus alerts look like?” Here are some common warning signs that a fake virus alert found its way onto your device:
Some people find themselves dealing with pop-ups like this constantly. In that case, you may have to take steps to remove the malware creating these fake virus alerts altogether.
Use the steps below to help clear your device of fake virus alerts endangering your personal cybersecurity.
The first step to take if you encounter a fake virus alert is to close your browser. Try to close your browser normally by clicking the X in the top-right corner. You can use the alternative methods below:
Windows:
MacOS:
Norton Power Eraser is compatible with Windows 7 SP1 and newer operating systems.
Depending on your version of Windows, download one of the following:
• On 64-bit Windows: Norton Power Eraser
• On 32-bit Windows: Norton Power Eraser
Press Ctrl + J key, to open the Downloads window in your browser, and double-click the NPE.exe file.
If the User Account Control window prompts, click Yes or Continue.
Read the license agreement and click Agree.
If you have already accepted the license agreement, you will not be prompted again.
Norton Power Eraser checks for and automatically downloads the new version if available.
In the Norton Power Eraser window, select Full System Scan, and click Run Now.
If you want to include the Rootkit scan, click Settings, and under Scan and Log Settings, toggle the option Include Rootkit scan (requires a computer restart) and click Apply.
When you see a prompt to restart the computer, click Restart.
Wait for the scan to complete. Follow the on-screen instructions.
A factory reset is a more permanent solution to clearing devices of fake virus pop-up messages — kind of like a digital deep cleaning. It essentially restores your hard drive to its original settings and deletes all other files and programs saved to the device.
This is great for clearing out pop-up viruses and different types of malware. However, it’s important you remember to back up any personal information before it’s cleared from your device.
Online hackers usually set traps on the web that trigger fake virus warnings to appear on your screen. Here are some tips to help keep you two steps ahead of their hacking methods:
Don’t let a fake virus alert ruin your online shopping or gaming session.
Use our tips on how to remove fake virus pop-ups and protect your devices to keep this cyberthreat out of sight and out of mind.
Still have some lingering questions about fake virus alerts? We have answers.
What should you do if you see a fake virus alert?Is the Google virus warning real?
No, Google does not have an antivirus software notifying users of malware threats. If you come across a pop-up like this, close your browser immediately.
What do fake virus alerts look like?
Fake virus alerts typically include the following:
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