Sometimes they appear as browser notifications after you accidentally click “Allow” on a rogue website.

| Action | Why it helps | |--------|---------------| | Use an ad blocker (uBlock Origin) | Blocks malicious ad networks | | Enable pop-up blocking in browser | Prevents new windows from opening | | Never click “Allow notifications” on unknown sites | Stops browser notification scams | | Keep browser and OS updated | Fixes security holes used by drive-by downloads | | Use real-time antivirus (Windows Defender is fine) | Legitimate AV won’t generate browser pop-ups | | Learn common scam phone numbers (e.g., fake Microsoft support) | Recognize call-based scams |

You reach a scammer posing as tech support (e.g., “Microsoft Certified Engineer”). They will: