Skip to main content

Protect Yourself from Pop-up Scams - Knowledgebase / Security / Phishing - OIT Service Center

Protect Yourself from Pop-up Scams

Authors list

Beware phony security alert pop-ups that may come clustered with other warnings such as "Do not restart or use your computer. Your computer is disabled." These pop-ups may cover your screen and make it appear that your browser has been locked. They usually provide a "tech support" phone number to call for assistance, such as in the following example.


DO NOT CALL the number offered, as this will direct you to the scammers. In the process to "fix" your problem, you may end up downloading software that allows access to your computer, possibly installing malware, and providing the scammers with your personal and financial information. Error and warning messages from reputable businesses, like Microsoft and Apple, would never include a contact phone number.

DO CONTACT phishbowl@brown.edu for questions about suspicious emails, or help@brown.edu for assistance if you believe your computer or account has been compromised.

RESOURCES:

 

Helpful Unhelpful

43 of 82 people found this page helpful

Send us a note about this article

Contact the OIT Service Center

Phone: 401-863-4357

Email: help@brown.edu

Location: Page Robinson Hall - 69 Brown St., Room 510

See our availability

https://it.brown.edu/get-help

Walk-ins Welcome! Appointments recommended.

For reserved service for a technical consult or a loaner check-out, you can schedule an appointment here.