miscrosoft alert computer locked

Bernie Emkes 0 Reputation points
2025-10-24T16:55:55.2+00:00

Microsoft computer alert - computer is locked and warning "do not close or shut off

Windows for home | Other | Security and privacy
0 comments No comments
{count} votes

2 answers

Sort by: Most helpful
  1. Estrella721 24,985 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-10-24T22:20:32.48+00:00

    Hi,

    To better understand the issue, can you share a picture of what the alert looks like?

    In the meantime, please do not call any number or click any link on that alert, as it is usually a tech support scam.

    0 comments No comments

  2. EmilyS_726 12,205 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
    2025-10-24T23:05:50.6533333+00:00

    Can you please hold down Ctrl+Alt+Del, then launch Task Manager, and then end all browser items there to close it. That page is definitely scam, but as long as you didn't call the number and engage in any of the requested activities, your computer is not hacked. It is just a pop up page that can have some audio effect (sometimes) and display in full screen mode, so it appears the computer is locked.

    Scammers use various methods to trigger these pop-ups. Pop-ups are a form of online advertising. They are often integrated into websites or applications through ad services. Many websites use third-party advertising services to display ads. Sometimes, these ad services might inadvertently allow scam ads to be displayed. This does not mean the website itself is malicious, but it indicates a lack of stringent ad vetting.

    You can read more about this type of support scam here: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/protect-yourself-from-tech-support-scams-2ebf91bd-f94c-2a8a-e541-f5c800d18435

    0 comments No comments

Your answer

Answers can be marked as 'Accepted' by the question author and 'Recommended' by moderators, which helps users know the answer solved the author's problem.