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A virus warning shown by a web page or sent as a browser notification is not proof that your device is infected. Some alerts are fake and designed to make you call a number, install software, or pay for support. Don’t click the alert, call its number, pay for its proposed fix, or download anything from it. First identify whether you saw a single web page, a site notification, repeated pop-ups or redirects, or broader changes to your browser or device; each calls for a different response.
Identify what kind of virus alert you’re seeing
Google warns that some sites make false virus claims to prompt harmful downloads. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) also describes scammers using fake security pop-ups that impersonate familiar companies. Treat the message as unverified and use the symptom—not the warning’s claim—to choose what to do.
- One alarming page or tab: Don’t follow its link or phone number. Close the tab or browser if you can, then check the issue through trusted browser or security settings.
- Messages when the browser is in the background or closed: They may be notifications from a site you previously allowed. Block that site’s notification permission.
- Pop-up windows or redirects while browsing: Review Chrome’s pop-up and redirect settings, and block permissions for the site involved.
- Continuing browser or device changes: Unfamiliar redirects, changed search or home-page settings, extensions that return, or other persistent problems call for checking unwanted software—not just changing a site permission.
Google’s guide to Chrome warnings about unsafe sites covers browser safety warnings. A warning shown by a page is not, by itself, a diagnosis that malware is installed.
Stop site notifications and pop-ups in Chrome on a computer
Block notifications from the site
If the alert arrives as a browser notification, change the permission for the site that sent it. In Chrome, visit the site, select the site information control beside the address, and set Notifications to Block. You can also manage site permissions in Chrome settings. Google’s Abusive notifications help page explains unwanted site notifications. Labels and menu placement can change between Chrome versions.
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Review pop-ups and redirects
Chrome blocks pop-ups by default. To check the setting, open Settings → Privacy and security → Site settings → Pop-ups and redirects. Review the default and block any suspicious site listed as allowed. Google’s current instructions for blocking or allowing pop-ups provide the version-specific steps.
Check for unwanted software if the problem persists
If pop-ups continue alongside changed browser settings, redirects, or extensions that return, review your extensions and recent browser changes. Google recommends checking for unwanted programs before resetting Chrome settings. If you reset, you may need to turn trusted extensions back on; re-enable only those you recognize and trust. Follow Google’s steps for removing unwanted ads, pop-ups, and malware on a computer.
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Turn off a site’s notifications in Chrome on Android
For notifications from one site, open Chrome and visit that site. Open Page info → Permissions → Notifications, then turn notifications off. Menu labels can vary by Android version and device; Google’s Android instructions for unwanted ads, pop-ups, and malware show its current guidance.
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If pop-ups remain after addressing site notifications, Google recommends restarting the device in safe mode and removing recently downloaded apps one at a time. Restart normally after each removal to see whether the problem stops. Google also advises making sure Play Protect is on. These steps are for persistent pop-ups, not a reason to remove an app based only on a scary web-page message.
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When to investigate a possible infection
A single website alert is not enough to conclude that malware is on your device. Look for additional, persistent symptoms such as unwanted tabs, unfamiliar redirects, extensions or toolbars that return, a changed search engine or home page, a disabled antivirus tool, or other device problems.
- Update security software through its official source and run a scan you start yourself.
- If you need technical help, find contact details on the company’s official website or in its settings—not in the alert.
- Use a scan to investigate broader or persistent symptoms; don’t buy a proposed fix in response to one alarming message.
If you clicked, called, or paid
Stop contact with the person or service behind the warning. Don’t use its links or phone number to continue. The FTC’s April 2025 consumer alert says that “security pop-up warnings from real tech companies will never ask you to call a phone number.” If you need to check a claim or seek support, contact the company through a website or settings you reach independently. Read the FTC alert on urgent security messages and tech-support scams.
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Choose the fix that matches the symptom
| What you notice | First step |
|---|---|
| One scary page or tab | Don’t interact; close it and verify through trusted settings or support. |
| Repeated messages from a site | Block that site’s notification permission. |
| Pop-ups or redirects in Chrome on a computer | Review Chrome’s pop-up and redirect setting and the site’s permissions. |
| Persistent pop-ups on Android | Turn off the site’s notifications; if they continue, follow Google’s safe-mode app checks and check Play Protect. |
| Browser changes or other continuing symptoms | Check extensions, apps, and unwanted software; run a scan initiated through trusted security software. |
Blocking notifications addresses a site that has permission to send them; it does not remove unwanted software if separate symptoms point to a broader problem. These menu instructions are for Chrome on a computer and Chrome on Android, not universal steps for every browser or operating system.
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