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A “Google Chrome critical error” page is not, by itself, proof your computer is infected. Don’t call a number on the screen, download its recommended fix, pay for help, or let a caller connect remotely. Close the tab—or Chrome itself if the page won’t dismiss—then check whether the warning was isolated or whether unwanted browser changes continue.
First, tell a scare page from a real Chrome warning
A website can falsely claim your device has a virus to pressure you into downloading harmful software. An unexpected phone number or offer to repair the computer is a tech-support scam warning sign, not a reason to call. The Federal Trade Commission says scammers may sell useless services, steal card details, or gain remote access and install malware. FTC: Tech Support Scams.
A genuine Chrome unsafe-site warning is different from a web page pretending to be a system alert. Chrome’s phishing and malware detection is on by default; if Chrome itself warns that a site is dangerous, heed the warning and leave the site. Google also cautions that some sites make false virus claims to prompt harmful downloads. Google Chrome Help: Manage warnings about unsafe sites (Android guidance; the false-claim warning principle applies here, not desktop menu instructions).
Decide whether it is one page or a continuing problem
If the alert appeared on one site and stopped after you closed its tab, that alone does not establish that malware is installed. Investigate further if Chrome keeps opening unwanted pop-ups or tabs, redirects you to unfamiliar sites, changes your homepage or search engine without permission, or brings back extensions you removed. Google lists these as possible signs of unwanted software or malware, not proof that every warning represents an infection. Google Chrome Help: Remove unwanted ads, pop-ups & malware — Computer.
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Remove the common sources of recurring alerts
Revoke the site’s pop-up or notification permission
- In Chrome, open Settings > Privacy and security > Site settings. Labels can vary slightly by Chrome version.
- Review Pop-ups and redirects and Notifications. Remove or block permission for the site sending unwanted alerts.
A site you previously allowed to send notifications can keep showing alerts even after you leave its page. Google’s instructions explain how to manage pop-ups and site permissions: Block or allow pop-ups in Chrome — Computer.
Remove extensions you do not trust
Open Chrome’s Extensions manager and remove extensions you recognize as unwanted or cannot trust. If an extension returns after removal, treat that as a reason to inspect installed computer apps as well.
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Check installed apps before resetting Chrome
- Windows: Open Start > Settings > Apps > Installed apps and uninstall an app you have identified as unwanted.
- Mac: Open Finder > Applications, move an app you have identified as unwanted to Trash, then empty Trash.
Do not remove an app solely because its name is unfamiliar if you cannot establish that it is unwanted. Ask a trusted technician if you are unsure. Google recommends checking for unwanted computer programs before resetting Chrome. Google Chrome Help: Remove unwanted ads, pop-ups & malware — Computer.
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Reset Chrome if its settings are still changed
If unwanted changes remain after checking permissions, extensions, and installed apps, restore Chrome’s settings:
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- Open Chrome and go to Settings > Reset settings.
- Select Restore settings to their original defaults, then choose Reset settings.
- After the reset, turn on only extensions you trust; some extensions may need to be enabled again.
See Google’s desktop instructions: Remove unwanted ads, pop-ups & malware — Computer.
Avoid the same trap next time
- Do not call numbers displayed in unexpected warnings, install a page’s “security” tool, pay the pop-up, or grant remote access.
- Do not ignore Chrome Safe Browsing download warnings. Avoid suspicious download or update prompts; when in doubt, get the program from its official site.
- If you need technical help, use a person and phone number you already know and trust—not contact details supplied by the warning or an unexpected caller.
The FTC describes these scam tactics and advises seeking help through a trusted contact: FTC: Tech Support Scams. Google’s desktop help also recommends caution with suspicious downloads and updates: Remove unwanted ads, pop-ups & malware — Computer.
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If you already called, paid, or gave access
Stop communicating through the number or link in the warning. If you shared payment information, contact your bank or card issuer using the number on your card or its official website. If you allowed remote access, installed an unknown program, or shared passwords, get incident-specific help from a trusted technician using a contact channel you already know. The steps above address browser warnings and common unwanted changes; they do not diagnose or fully remediate every confirmed malware infection or remote-access exposure.
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