You’re surfing the web.
Suddenly, an alarming pop-up appears:
“⚠️ Your device is infected! Click here to clean it!”
Relax.
It’s fake — and here’s how to stop seeing these forever.
✅ 1. Understand what’s happening
These popups are malicious ads (malvertising) designed to:
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Scare you
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Make you download fake antivirus software
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Steal personal information
✅ Your real antivirus would never alert you through a browser pop-up.
✅ 2. Use strong ad-blockers
Install:
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uBlock Origin (free)
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AdGuard (free/paid options)
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Enable anti-malware filter lists (EasyList, EasyPrivacy)
✅ Blocks most malicious ads before they load.
✅ 3. Keep your browser updated
Browser updates:
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Patch vulnerabilities
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Improve built-in phishing and malware blocking
✅ Always use the latest Chrome, Firefox, Edge versions.
✅ 4. Turn off popups in browser settings
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Chrome: Settings → Privacy → Site Settings → Pop-ups and redirects → Block
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Firefox/Edge: Similar settings
✅ Legitimate sites rarely need pop-up permissions.
✅ 5. Use secure DNS
Switch to:
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Cloudflare DNS (1.1.1.1)
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Quad9 DNS (9.9.9.9)
These services block domains known for fake virus alerts automatically.
Key points to remember
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Real antivirus alerts never come from browsers
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Use ad-blockers and updated browsers to stay safe
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Block popups and redirects at the browser level
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Secure DNS = early warning system
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Scare tactics = scam tactics