Stay Safe Online This Black Friday: Beware of Browser Notifications About Viruses
Black Friday is one of the biggest shopping days in the UK, with millions heading online to find deals. However, cybercriminals are ready to exploit this busy period. One of their most common tricks involves fake browser virus notifications. These scams, often seen on browsers like Edge or Chrome, claim your device is infected with a virus to trick you into clicking harmful links or downloading malware.
How to Spot Fake Virus Notifications on Black Friday
These notifications often look authentic, using professional designs and alarming messages like, “Your PC is infected with 3 viruses!” Clicking on them can lead to phishing websites or dangerous downloads.
Here’s how to identify a fake:
- Check the source: Legitimate antivirus software doesn’t use random browser pop-ups.
- Look for errors: Scammers often include spelling or grammar mistakes in their messages.
- Close without clicking: Don’t interact with the pop-up. Simply close the tab or restart your browser.
Protect Yourself While Shopping Online
With a little preparation, you can shop safely this Black Friday:
- Keep browsers updated: Ensure Chrome or Edge is running the latest version to avoid vulnerabilities.
- Use reliable antivirus software: Stick to trusted brands for real protection.
- Block pop-ups: Use an ad blocker to reduce malicious notifications.
Black Friday should be about finding great bargains—not falling victim to scams. Stay alert and only trust notifications from verified software. For more advice, visit NCSC’s guide to staying safe online.
With 39D’s managed IT Services if you unsure our support team are on hand.
