Remove the "Microsoft computer has been blocked" virus

Have you encountered a pop-up notifying you that "Microsoft computer has been blocked"? Don't worry. Your device is not actually blocked. However, be wary that this pop-up is a common scam. While not malicious by itself, as it typically doesn't contain a virus, scammers use these pop-ups for financial gain or access to your personal information.

This scam is most dangerous to people unaware that Microsoft would never block their computer. Thus unsuspecting users may willingly contact the scammers posing as "Microsoft technicians" and give up remote access to computers. In turn, scammers may ask them to pay for their "services," infect the device with malware, or steal their data.

If you're wondering how not to fall victim to this scam and get rid of the pop-ups, we have the answers. Continue reading the article and learn how to remove "Microsoft computer has been blocked" pop-ups.

Best antivirus to remove "Microsoft computer has been blocked" pop-ups

TotalAV will help you to detect and get rid of "Microsoft computer has been blocked" pop-ups by running a full system scan. It also offers a WebShield extension that will protect you from a scam and phishing websites in the future.

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What is the "Microsoft has blocked the computer"?

The "Microsoft computer has been blocked" is a pop-up that can appear in your browser, on infected sites, or even as a notification on your computer. Typically, it shows a message claiming that your device has been infected with a virus, and Microsoft had to block it. To fix the problem, you're encouraged to contact "Microsoft technician" via a provided phone number or by clicking a link. Sometimes, scammers can even call you about the fake issue.

While these notifications typically do not contain any malware, it is dangerous for unsuspecting victims to initiate the contact. Once a person contacts the fake technician, they will ask for remote access to the device. Then, the "technician" may attempt to either steal personal information, install malware, or demand payments for "fixing" the problem.

Remember that Microsoft or any other reputable company will never block your computer. Rarely do they ever contact you about anything else, then some promotional offers. Thus, you can be certain that if you receive a phone call or a notification from Microsoft offering unsolicited technical support – it's most likely a scam.

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Why am I seeing the "Microsoft has blocked the computer" pop-ups on my device?

Getting the "Microsoft has blocked the computer" pop-ups is quite easy. A few wrong clicks or bad judgment calls, and you're displayed with a pop-up that ought to get your data. But how exactly does that happen? Here are the most common culprits:

• Malicious websites. Many malicious websites on the internet trigger these pop-ups. Some of them are designed specifically for the purpose of infecting your computer. You may end up visiting these sites by clicking on suspicious links. It's also entirely possible for hackers to compromise otherwise safe websites.
• Malvertising. Malicious ads paired with adware are the most common way for scammers to distribute "Microsoft has blocked the computer" pop-ups. They can infiltrate regular advertising services or get into your device attached to the software you download.
• Infected downloads. Downloading files from untrustworthy sources, whether intentionally or accidentally, can cause tremendous damage to your computer. This is exactly how this pop-up scam can appear directly in your device's notifications center.
• Dangerous browser extensions. Unreliable or compromised extensions are another way to get infected with "Microsoft has blocked the computer" pop-ups. By giving permission to access your browser, you willingly invite potential threats. Thus, make sure to only download browser extensions from trusted sources.

How to get rid of the "Microsoft has blocked the computer" virus?

Typically, removing the "Microsoft has blocked the computer" pop-up is not a complicated process. However, the remedies depend on how the infection happened. Follow these simple steps to get rid of the scam.

Step 1: exit the browser

If you end up on a website with a "Microsoft has blocked the computer" pop-up, the first step is simply to exit the website. If that doesn't help, try closing the browser window and opening it again.

However, sometimes these pop-ups prevent you from exiting the browsing. Here's what you should do:

1. Go to the Search bar and find the Task Manager. Alternatively, press CTRL+ALT+DELETE on your keyboard and click on Task Manager.
2. Then choose Processes in the top menu.
3. Find your browser and click right-click on it.
4. Choose the End task option to close the browser forcefully.

Step 2. Remove unwanted extensions

In some cases, unreliable or even accidentally downloaded browser extensions may be the culprit. Your best course of action is to find them and remove them.

Here's how to do it:

1. Depending on the browser, click on three dots (or three lines) in the upper right corner to open the drop-down menu.
2. Click on the Extensions option.
3. Now look for any suspicious extensions (mp3 converters, rewards extensions, etc.) and remove them.
4. Relaunch the browser.

Step 3. Restore default browser settings

Another option is resetting the browser's settings. Keep in mind that this method will remove all extensions.

Reset the browser's settings for Chrome:

1. Click on three dots in the upper right corner and choose Settings.
2. On the left side menu, choose Reset and clean up.
3. Then select Restore settings to their original defaults and click Confirm.

Reset the browser's settings for Brave browser:

1. Click on three lines in the upper right corner and choose Settings.
2. In the left side menu, scroll down and find Reset settings.
3. Choose Restore settings to their original defaults and confirm.

Reset the browser's settings for Firefox:

1. Click on three lines in the upper right corner and select Help.
2. In the new menu, click on More troubleshooting information.
3. Then choose Refresh Firefox at the top of the window.
4. Confirm the selection and relaunch the browser.

Step 4. Uninstall unrecognized programs

If all previous methods failed, the pop-up might have made its way into your computer. Thus you need to do a software cleanup. Here's how to find suspicious apps:

1. Launch the Task Manager by pressing CTRL+ALT+DELETE.
2. Look for apps that suspiciously take up too much CPU and memory. If you find any, right-click to end it.
3. Then go to the search bar and type in Add or remove programs.
4. Find the suspicious app and choose to remove it.
5. Look through other apps and remove them if they seem suspicious.
6. Restart your device.

Step 5. Install an antivirus and run a scan

Whether or not the previous steps helped you, running an antivirus is always a good idea. Malware has many sneaky ways to infect your device without you even knowing. If that happens, manual removal may not work anymore.

Thus, we recommend getting efficient and reliable antivirus software, such as our top-choice TotalAV antivirus.

Here are a few simple steps to start an antivirus scanner:

1. Choose an antivirus provider and visit their official website. We recommend using TotalAV.
2. Pick a plan and register.
3. Add the payment details and buy the product.
4. Download the Installer.
5. Install the antivirus.
6. After the installation, open the antivirus and run a scan.
7. Follow the steps to remove the malware.

How can I protect my PC against viruses?

Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself and your computer from the "Microsoft has blocked the computer" scam:

• Use antivirus software. Antivirus software, paired with a trustworthy ad block, should help you avoid ever seeing this type of pop-up or any other scams. It will also help detect malware-infected downloads and software.
• Be cautious. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading software from unreliable sources. Be particularly careful with ads, as they often lead to infected downloads and malicious pages.
• Use an ad blocker. If your chosen antivirus software doesn't block ads, consider additionally getting an a trusted ad blocker. It will remove not only the annoying ad but it will also help you avoid potential threats.
• Don't disclose personal information. If you're contacted by somebody claiming to be a "Microsoft technician," don't disclose any personal information, and definitely do not offer payment for their services.
• Educate yourself. Take time to get familiar with cybercrimes, such as phishing and other scams. This way, you'll be able to recognize them. Potential threats and avoid falling for them.

Conclusion

"Microsoft computer has been blocked" is a sneaky pop-up that usually doesn't harm your device. However, those who fail to recognize that this pop-up is a scam may suffer serious consequences.

The scam works by making you believe that your device is blocked. The presented solution is reaching out to a "Microsoft technician." Once contacted, this fake employee will try to get remote access to your device for illicit activities or try to extort money from you for their assistance.

If you recognize such a pop-up but can't get rid of it, there are steps you can take. For instance, try to restart your browser, check for suspicious extensions and apps, or reset your browser settings. Even if you successfully get rid of the scam, don't forget to run an antivirus scan.

We recommend using TotalAV, which can efficiently detect and remove potential malware and other cyber threats to keep you safe. It is paired with a powerful ad blocker that removes both annoying and dangerous sites. The software guarantees an excellent browsing experience, free from scams.

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