Not all security alerts you receive indicate that your computer is infected. Many are tricks to get you to download malware or antivirus. Identifying these false alerts can help you avoid installing unwanted programs or infecting your device. Here are some tips to help you identify them.

Using fear and urgency tactics

Fake virus alerts typically use alarming language designed to create fear and urgency. They claim that your device is seriously infected and demand immediate action. They aim to rush you to react without questioning the authenticity of the alert. They lure you in using phrases like “Act in X minutes to prevent damage.”

On the other hand, legitimate security alerts explain threat detection without pressuring you to make quick decisions. If an alert feels too insistent, you need to take extra steps to confirm if it’s real, there’s every chance it’s a fake.

Start by run a malware scan using Windows Security or other antivirus of your choice.

There is no simple way to close the pop-up window

A clear sign of a false alert is when it won’t let you close it normally. The regular “X” button may be missing, or clicking it will not close the alert window and instead redirect you elsewhere. In contrast, genuine alerts from reputable security software can be closed like any other notification.

If you find yourself in this situation, close your browser, disconnect from the Internet, and restart your computer. When you reopen the browser, avoid restoring previous tabs.

Unexpected pop-ups while browsing the web

Most of the fake security alerts appear unexpectedly while you are browsing. You can click on a link that triggers the pop-up or visit a malicious web page that displays the alert. Instead, legitimate security software notifications appear in the notification area of ​​the operating system rather than as random pop-ups.

So, if a sudden and suspicious pop-up appears after a routine action, it’s probably fake and you should close your browser tab immediately. In addition, make sure that block browser pop-ups.

Fake system scans

Legitimate security software only scans your system if it is installed on your device and has the necessary permissions. They also usually run at scheduled intervals. When it detects a problem, it delivers specific details about the infection and provides an option to delete. Instead, false alerts often simulate a system scan and display an exaggerated number of infections.

If you get an alert that claims an infection from software that isn’t installed on your device, especially with phrases like 32 threats detected, it’s probably fake.

The application icon is missing from the taskbar

When legitimate security software warns you of a potential infection, it usually displays a application icon in the taskbar, system tray or notification area. The app may also open automatically, prompting you to take action. Instead, a fake alert often appears randomly with no icon in the taskbar or notification area.

If an alert appears without an associated app icon or you can’t find the security software running, it’s probably fake. To check, open your antivirus app to see if it reports any infections.

Contact information from the alert

Genuine antivirus alerts from legitimate software never include phone numbers or support contact information in the alert itself. If an alert provides a number to call or a link, it’s a typical sign of a scam. Scammers often use this tactic to get victims to call for assistance and offer expensive fake services or other schemes.

If you see a phone number, email, or any contact information in the alert, don’t use it. To check, compare it with the official contact details on the security software website.

Too many alerts bog you down

If you see a barrage of security alerts appear frequentlythis is a false alarm sign. Sometimes these alerts appear in quick succession in an annoying stream. In contrast, legitimate security software only displays occasional and relevant warnings when it detects malware on your system.

If you experience overwhelming alerts, disconnect your computer from the Internet and check if the alerts continue. If they stop, they are probably fake.

Request to install unknown software

Some legitimate software collaborates with lesser-known but genuine security providers and sends you alerts about potential infections. These alerts often encourage you to download their protection software. While these alerts may not be outright scams, the warning about an infection could be a tactic to convince you to install the software.

These alerts usually include a “Fix Now” button that directs you to a website to download the software. If you find yourself in this situation, the alert is probably not genuine.

Inconsistent branding and awkward phrases

Fake virus alerts often contain branding inconsistencies, such as logos that have mismatched fonts, colors, and overall design compared to a reputable security software brand. The language used in these alerts is also poor, with spelling and grammar errors that suggest they were hastily created.

If you are not sure, you can compare the mark in the alert with a legitimate one in the security software. If something seems unpleasant, you should avoid it.

Redirection to fake websites

Another common indicator of fake pop-ups is that clicking anywhere in the alert, not just the buttons, takes you to a suspicious or malicious website. On the other hand, genuine alerts usually open the security software directly, allowing you to review threat details and instructions for removing infections.

If the entire alert contains a link that directs you to a dubious site, close your browser immediately to prevent device compromise.

Unrealistic claims or offers that are too good to be true

Fake virus or security alerts often make exaggerated claims, such as promising to remove all malware with a single click or offering total protection against every possible threat. These claims are usually associated with incredible deals on software or services, such as lifetime licenses for premium antivirus programs at a fraction of the regular price.

If you come across such overly optimistic claims, approach them with skepticism. Contact software or service support directly through reputable sources to confirm your suspicion.

Requests payment or personal information

If a security alert prompts you personal information you shouldn’t share onlinesuch as credit card details, social security number or home address, you should not trust them. Similarly, if the alert asks for payment of even a small amount to remove an infection, the alert is probably fake in most cases.

Legitimate software usually lets you remove threats with a free scan and only requires you to subscribe to a premium version for extra protection.

This is how you can spot a fake security alert and prevent potential infections on your device. If you accidentally interact with one, follow these steps: First, disconnect your device from the Internet and run a security scan using Windows Security (Windows Defender) or any third-party security software you have.

If you interact with an alert while browsing the web, consider reinstalling your browser to ensure it is not compromised.