Locked laptop due to alleged windows privacy and security alert

This is a tech support scam, not a real Microsoft security alert. Genuine Microsoft error and warning messages never include a phone number, and Microsoft does not make unsolicited calls to tell people there is a problem with a device.

Do not call the number, do not click anything on the page, and do not give anyone remote access or personal or financial information.

To close it:

1. Try closing the browser with Alt+F4.
2. If that does not work, press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager.
3. Find the web browser that is showing the alert, then select End task.
4. If prompted when reopening the browser, do not restore the previous tabs/pages, or the scam page may reopen.
5. If the browser cannot be closed, restart the computer.

If suspicious sites appear again in Microsoft Edge, report them from Settings and More > Help and Feedback > Report unsafe site.

The scam can also be reported at https://www.microsoft.com/reportascam.

References:

• Protect yourself from tech support scams
• Protect yourself from online scams and attacks
• How do I remove this Windows Security that has locked my computer - Microsoft Q&A I was browsing on Facebook and a message popped up up stating that someone I don’t know was trying to call me. When I clicked on the “x”, a message came up and said access to the system has been blocked. I turned off my laptop several times hoping it would go away but it hasn’t. What do I do?
• Unwanted pop up security alert claiming to be Microsoft - Microsoft Q&A Pop up that claims to be Microsoft saying my computer has been locked because someone was trying to use my Ip address and to call Microsoft support immediately at 877-339-8245 . shutting down will cause data lose.