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How to Spot a Windows Defender Order Scam [Easy Guide]
9 min. read
Updated onApril 12, 2024
updated onApril 12, 2024
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Windows Defender order scams are a common way for crooks to get your money. Cybercriminals have devised this method to steal your personal information.
Once they access your details, they gain unauthorized access to your computer or use your computer to distribute malware. It’s a way they get you to do what they want so they can get what they want.
You may fall victim to this scam if you are experiencingdifficulties updating your Windows Defenderbut worry not as our expert guide has solutions to bypass the issue.
Although Microsoft has made significant strides in the security of Windows with advanced technology, scammers are also getting more creative with their methods. It is important to stay vigilant lest you fall for one of these scams and end up losing some money or personal data.
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What does a Windows Defender order scam mean?
A Windows Defender order scam is an attempt to trick you into paying for a subscription to Microsoft Defender Antivirus software.
This normally happens if you’re not running a genuine version of Windows on your PC. You may also fall victim if you’re running an older version of Windows that doesn’t include built-in virus protection.
Windows Defender is a free in-built program for Windows computers that helps protect your PC against viruses, spyware, and other malicious software.
The scam can be very hard to spot, especially if you’re not familiar with how Microsoft and its products work. You canfind out more about Windows Defenderin our comprehensive article to be better prepared.
Quick Tip
Phishing scams rely on collecting personal information like name, date of birth, social security number, and others to steal your identity which leads to massive financial consequences.
To protect you from that, you can try an automatic data removal program that helps you delete your data from numerous databases to fully secure your privacy.
Incogni
What techniques do scammers use?
A Windows Defender scam can manifest itself in various ways. It can be in the form of a fake antivirus. You may also be duped into downloading and installing a program on your computer.
Scam techniques can be broken down into three categories:
How do tech support scams work?
Tech support scams work in various ways. However, the end goal is always to get you to buy something that you don’t really need. It could be a tool, an upgrade, or a service that’s being sold.
While some tech support scams are run by phone alone, others use pop-up messages on your computer.
Some of these messages seem to come from legitimate companies like Microsoft. They always say that you need to call their support line immediately. These messages often freeze your computer so that you can’t close them unless you restart your system.
The best way to spot a scam is to know what it should look like in the first place. Here are a few tips to spot a Windows Defender order scam:
How can I spot a Windows Defender order scam?
1. Unsolicited orders
If you did not order for anything, anyone calling or emailing you about a Windows Defender order is obviously a scammer. Windows Defender cannot be bought because it is free.
2. Grammar mistakes
One of the most obvious signs is bad spelling and grammar. Spammers often don’t have native English speakers writing their emails, which can lead to mistakes that could give them away. Check for typos and weird-looking sentences.
3. Fake URL
Another red flag is the URL of the website in the email. Scammers like to use URLs that look very similar to legitimate ones. Usually, they will only change a single letter or number to differentiate it from the official company’s email.
Examine each letter closely and compare it to the one given on Microsoft’s website since they can be easy to miss at first glance.
4. Wrong website names
Hover over any links using your mouse to see what web address will be displayed. Microsoft links will always show a preview of the official website with the correct website name. If you notice any suspicious characters, the email could be a scam.
5. Suspicious pop-up ads
If you’re getting pop-up ads online that tell you to call a number to get help with your Windows Defender order, there’s a good chance it’s a scam. The scammers will try to trick you into calling the number and giving up your personal information.
6. Unsolicited phone calls
If you receive an unsolicited email or phone call. The scammer will tell you that they’re from Microsoft. They will also claim that they need remote access to your computer to cancel your Windows Defender order because there’s something wrong with it.
The scammer might also tell you that if you don’t let them access your computer, your device will be disabled or even that it was hacked by someone else.
What can I do if I have already fallen victim to a Windows Defender scam?
If you think you may have fallen victim to a Windows Defender scam, there are a few things you can do:
What can I do to protect myself from Windows Defender order scams?
In the future, you will need to stay vigilant so that you don’t fall prey to such scams. Below are some tips to help you protect yourself:
As seen, it is really easy for criminals to make it look like you’ve been hit with a Windows Defender order.
The internet is a wild and dangerous space especially if you don’t know basic scam checks. In the end, these con artists are really just trying to steal from the unsuspecting.
It’s common for scammers to use the trust of a well-known brand or popular product to trick you into visiting a website and handing over your information.
To protect your data, consider installingmulti-factor authentication softwarewhich will make it hard for scammers to access your details.
You can always add an extra layer of protection by installingreliable security softwareto minimize the risks.
Let us know of any other scams that you may have fallen victim to and the steps you took to protect yourself in the comment section below.
More about the topics:scams,Windows Defender issues
Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
Claire has a knack for solving problems and improving the quality of life for those around her. She’s driven by rationality, curiosity, and simplicity, and always eager to learn more about Microsoft’s products. With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11, errors, and software.
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Claire Moraa
Windows Software Expert
With a background in teaching and reviewing, she breaks down complex topics into easily understandable articles, focusing mostly on Windows 11 errors.
