Microsoft security alert scams are among the most common phishing attacks targeting users. Scammers create fake alerts that look like legitimate Microsoft notifications to steal your personal information, passwords, or money. This guide helps you identify real Microsoft alerts from scams.
How to Identify Fake Microsoft Alerts
Red Flags That Indicate a Scam
| Scam Indicator | What Scammers Do |
|---|---|
| Phone numbers | Ask you to call a support number - Microsoft never does this |
| Urgent threats | "Your account will be deleted in 24 hours" - creates panic |
| Generic greetings | "Dear Customer" instead of your actual name |
| Grammar errors | Poor spelling and awkward phrasing |
| Suspicious links | URLs that don't end in microsoft.com |
| Payment requests | Ask for gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency |
| Remote access | Ask you to install TeamViewer, AnyDesk, or similar software |
Legitimate Microsoft Email Addresses
Real Microsoft security emails come from:
Warning: Scammers can spoof email addresses. Even if the sender looks legitimate, verify by logging into your account directly.
How to Verify a Security Alert
- Don't click links in the email
- Open a new browser window
- Type directly:
account.microsoft.com - Sign in to your account
- Check Security > Recent Activity for any actual alerts
If there's a real security issue, you'll see it in your account's security dashboard.
Common Microsoft Security Scams
1. Fake Security Alert Emails
Claims someone tried to access your account and asks you to "verify" by clicking a link that leads to a phishing site.
What to do: Check your account at account.microsoft.com directly.
2. Tech Support Pop-ups
Browser pop-ups claiming your computer is infected with viruses and providing a phone number to call.
What to do: Close the browser (use Task Manager if needed). Microsoft never displays phone numbers in security alerts.
3. Single-Use Code Scams
Emails about security codes you didn't request, trying to make you think someone is accessing your account.
What to do: If you didn't request a code, ignore it. Someone may have entered your email by mistake, or it's a phishing attempt.
4. Account Suspension Threats
Emails claiming your account will be suspended unless you "verify" your information immediately.
What to do: Microsoft doesn't threaten immediate suspension via email. Check your account directly.
5. Phone Calls from "Microsoft Support"
Callers claiming to be from Microsoft warning about viruses or security issues.
What to do: Hang up. Microsoft never makes unsolicited support calls.
What to Do If You've Been Scammed
If you interacted with a scam:
If You Entered Your Password
- Immediately go to account.microsoft.com from a different device
- Change your password
- Enable two-factor authentication
- Review Recent Activity for unauthorized access
- Check connected apps and revoke suspicious ones
If You Gave Remote Access
- Disconnect from the internet
- Run a full antivirus scan
- Change all passwords from a different device
- Check your accounts for unauthorized activity
- Consider professional malware removal
If You Paid Money
- Contact your bank or credit card company immediately
- Report the fraud to get charges reversed if possible
- File a report with local law enforcement
- Report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
How to Report Microsoft Scams
- Microsoft: microsoft.com/reportascam
- Phishing emails: Forward to
[email protected] - FTC: reportfraud.ftc.gov
- FBI IC3: ic3.gov (for significant financial loss)
Protecting Yourself from Future Scams
- Enable two-factor authentication on your Microsoft account
- Use a password manager to detect fake login pages
- Keep your browser updated for phishing protection
- Never share passwords via email or phone
- Bookmark account.microsoft.com for direct access