Computer virus pop-up or call: is it a scam?
A warning suddenly fills your screen, sometimes with a loud alarm, saying your computer is infected and you must call a number. Or someone calls saying they are from a well-known tech company. They want to take control of your computer.
Check your message free ↓What it can look like
WARNING! Your computer has been blocked because of a virus. Do not turn off your computer. Call Support now on [phone number] to unlock it.
A made-up example. Real messages vary.
The warning signs
- A pop-up that will not close, with a phone number to call.
- A caller who says they are from a big tech company or your internet provider.
- A request to install an app so they can "fix" your computer.
- A request for payment, or to log in to your online banking while they watch.
What to do
- Do not call the number. Close the browser. If it will not close, restart your computer.
- Never let a stranger control your computer or phone.
- If you let someone in, disconnect from the internet, run your security software and change your passwords from another device.
- If you shared bank details or paid, call your bank straight away.
Already paid or shared your details?
- Call your bank straight away, using the number on your card.
- Change any passwords you shared, starting with your email.
- Report it (see below).
- Tell someone you trust. Scams catch careful people too.
United Kingdom
Report fraud at reportfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, call Police Scotland on 101. Forward scam texts to 7726 and scam emails to report@phishing.gov.uk. Call 159 to reach most UK banks.
United States
Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Forward scam texts to 7726.
Canada
Report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre on 1-888-495-8501. Forward scam texts to 7726.
Australia
Report it at scamwatch.gov.au. If you lost money, report it to the police at cyber.gov.au and call IDCARE on 1800 595 160 for free help.
Anywhere else
Report it to your local police or your national fraud reporting service.
Our checks on this scam
A call from the police or a government agency asking for money? The documented scam pattern
No. On 17 September 2026 the FBI warned that criminals pretend to be police and government officials, and said real authorities will never phone or text to demand payment. Police in Canada and Pennsylvania issued similar warnings on 24 and 25 September. UK police say they will never come to your home to collect money or your bank card. This reviews a documented pattern, not a particular call.
Updated 27 September 2026 · Read the evidence ↗Other common scams
- Parcel delivery texts
- Your bank's "fraud team" calls
- Tax refunds, fines and road tolls
- Celebrity investment adverts
- "Hi Mum, I've got a new number"
- A loved one's voice on the phone
- Fake shops and too-good deals
- Requests for a security code
- Online friends who talk about money
- Calls from the "police" asking for money
- Power or water cut-off messages
This page is general information, not legal or financial advice. Reporting details were checked on 26 September 2026. Another AI Lie is not linked to the organisations named. Example messages are made up.