Scam WARNING: PC Lockdown

Happily, there’s a workaround thanks to tech genius Stelian Pilici.

A few hours ago, my PC got infected by the virtual equivalent of the coronavirus, consequential to which was mandatory isolation. It was locked down, purportedly for my protection. “Microsoft” generated an ominous message: “Windows Defender Security Code — threat detected — Trojan spyware — call tech support 888–896–8213 immediately to unlock your PC — do not attempt to restart.”

The warning notwithstanding, I turned off the power and attempted to restart, alas, to no avail. The message was especially obnoxious given it was accompanied by nonstop back-up vocals that repeatedly recited the text of the manically flashing pop-up error box.

I was rightly suspicious that the lockdown program itself was the Trojan horse. I’d recently learned — profuse thanks due to a fan’s post — can’t recall whose — that as tech support “helps” they scoop information as to your passwords and credit card (and I didn’t want to pay regardless).

I called the number provided and expressed my suspicions. Though the technician seemed sincere —instructing me to use F1 to quash the vocals and offering the option to call the geek squad at Best Buy if I was “uncomfortable” — I declined to proceed with his assistance.

Luckily, I had another PC at my disposal and Google found malwaretips.com, which confirmed this was indeed a scam. Even better, the site provided step-by-step instructions — with screen shots — as to how to unlock the computer by using CTRL-ALT-DEL to invoke the task bar and close down the browser — then restart — after which, be sure to DECLINE the restore option.

Remove “Windows Defender — Security Warning” Fake Microsoft Alerts (malwaretips.com)

This is the first of three hacks inside of a week.

Here’s the second:

Here’s the third:

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