The “Windows Defender Security Scan” Scam

Cybercriminals are constantly coming up with new ways to trick users into giving up sensitive information or installing malware. One such scam is the “Windows Defender Security Scan”, a fake security warning that masquerades as a legitimate Microsoft Defender alert. This scam uses social engineering tactics to frighten users into calling a fake support number, potentially leading to financial loss, identity theft, or malware infections.

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Windows Defender Security Scan Scam: Threat Summary

The following table summarizes the key details of this scam:

Threat Name	“Windows Defender Security Scan” Scam
Threat Type	Tech support scam, phishing, fraud
Fake Claim	System is at risk due to a network breach
Disguise	Microsoft Defender (formerly Windows Defender)
Fake Ransom Note/Pop-up	“CRITICAL SYSTEM ALERT: NETWORK BREACH DETECTED”
Associated Email Addresses	N/A (scammers use fake phone numbers)
Detection Names	Fake tech support, browser hijacker, phishing scam
Symptoms	Fake error messages, pop-ups, browser hijacks, fake system scans
Damage	Financial loss, identity theft, potential malware infection
Distribution Methods	Malicious ads, compromised websites, potentially unwanted programs (PUPs)
Danger Level	High – potential for financial fraud and malware infection

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How the "Windows Defender Security Scan" Scam Works

Step 1: Fake Alert Appears

Users may encounter this scam when visiting a compromised website, clicking a rogue advertisement, or being redirected via adware installed on their device. The fraudulent website displays a pop-up warning stating:

Windows Defender Security Scan

CRITICAL SYSTEM ALERT: NETWORK BREACH DETECTED

Immediate action required to prevent data loss

Contact Microsoft Security team: +1-800-555-0199

The alert claims that the user’s system has been compromised due to a network breach and urges them to call a fake "Microsoft Security team" for assistance.

Step 2: Scare Tactics to Force a Call

The scam convinces victims that their device is at risk of a serious cyberattack. Often, users are unable to close the pop-up window normally. The message may also include:

• "Your personal files may be compromised."
• "Immediate action is required to prevent data loss."
• "Do not shut down your computer. Call support now!"

Step 3: Scammers Gain Remote Access

Once a victim calls the number, scammers pretend to be Microsoft-certified technicians. They request remote access to the device using legitimate tools like UltraViewer or TeamViewer.

Step 4: Exploitation and Extortion

Once connected to the system, scammers may:

• Steal sensitive data (passwords, banking details, social media credentials, etc.)
• Install malware (trojans, ransomware, spyware)
• Remove genuine security tools to make the victim dependent on their "services"
• Demand payment for fake security software or "tech support services"
• Request payment via untraceable methods (gift cards, cryptocurrency, or cash shipments)

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How to Remove the "Windows Defender Security Scan" Scam

If you have encountered this scam or allowed scammers remote access to your device, follow these steps to remove the threat.

Step 1: Close the Scam Pop-Up

If you cannot close the warning message, follow these steps:

1. Use Task Manager (Windows)
   • Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
   • Find your browser in the list, right-click it, and select End Task.
   • Reopen your browser but avoid restoring the previous session.
2. Force Quit (Mac): Press Command + Option + Escape, select your browser, and click Force Quit.

Step 2: Disconnect from the Internet

If you gave scammers remote access, immediately disconnect your device from the Internet to prevent further exploitation:

• Unplug your Ethernet cable or disable Wi-Fi.

Step 3: Uninstall Remote Access Software

If scammers used programs like UltraViewer or TeamViewer, remove them:

1. Go to Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a program (Windows) or Applications > Move to Trash (Mac).
2. Find and remove any suspicious software.

Step 4: Scan Your System with SpyHunter

To ensure your system is not infected with malware, use a trusted anti-malware tool like SpyHunter.

Steps to scan your system with SpyHunter

1. Download SpyHunter.
2. Install and launch the software.
3. Click Start Scan Now to check for malware.
4. If threats are detected, click Remove Selected to eliminate them.

Step 5: Reset Browser Settings

To remove lingering traces of the scam:

• Google Chrome: Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their original defaults
• Firefox: Help > More troubleshooting information > Refresh Firefox
• Microsoft Edge: Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their default values

Step 6: Monitor Financial and Personal Accounts

If you shared sensitive information, immediately:

• Change passwords for banking, email, and social media accounts.
• Monitor your financial statements for unauthorized transactions.
• Consider enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) for extra security.

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How to Avoid Tech Support Scams

To prevent falling victim to scams like "Windows Defender Security Scan", follow these best practices:

• Ignore pop-ups claiming system infections – Microsoft never delivers security alerts through pop-ups.
• Avoid clicking on suspicious ads and links – Use an ad blocker to minimize exposure to rogue advertisements.
• Download software only from official sources – Avoid torrents and unverified downloads.
• Be cautious with browser notifications – Only allow notifications from trusted websites.
• Do not share personal information over the phone – Microsoft does not offer unsolicited tech support calls.
• Use strong, unique passwords – Utilize a password manager to keep your accounts secure.
• Regularly update your OS and software – Ensuring your system is patched helps prevent security exploits.

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Conclusion

The "Windows Defender Security Scan" scam is a dangerous phishing attack designed to deceive users into calling fake support numbers and allowing cybercriminals remote access to their devices. By following the steps outlined above, users can safely remove this threat using SpyHunter, prevent future infections, and stay protected against online scams.