How to Tell If a Software Update Is Legit or a Scam

You’re browsing the web, and suddenly a pop-up appears:

“Your system is out of date! Click here to install the latest update.”

If that makes you pause — good.
Because not all update notifications are real.
Some are scams designed to trick you into installing malware or giving away your information.

Here’s how to spot the difference between a real software update and a fake one, and keep your system safe.

✅ 1. Real updates don’t come from pop-up ads

A legitimate software update will never show up in a random browser pop-up.
If a window tells you that your antivirus or Flash Player needs an update — and it’s not coming from the app itself — close it immediately.

✅ Tip: Always ignore update messages that come from ads or websites, especially if they include flashy warnings or countdown timers.

✅ 2. Check the source of the message

Genuine updates come from:

The app itself (through its settings or notification panel)
Your operating system (like Windows Update or macOS System Preferences)
Official websites (with correct domain names)

Scam updates often come from suspicious domains or third-party installers with strange names like update-now247.info.

✅ Tip: Always double-check the URL or source before clicking.

✅ 3. Look at how the update is delivered

Real updates:

Usually require admin permission to install
Show version numbers and release notes
Don’t pressure you with “urgent” language

Fake updates:

Often auto-download without asking
Use phrases like “critical threat detected” or “your PC is at risk”
Might bundle additional software or extensions

✅ 4. Use antivirus or browser protection

Modern security tools like Microsoft Defender SmartScreen, Google Safe Browsing, and good antivirus programs can warn you about fake update sites.

If you accidentally visit a known scam site, these tools may block the download or alert you before you install anything.

✅ Tip: Keep browser protection turned on — it’s often your first line of defense.

✅ 5. Trust, but verify

Even if something looks legit, it doesn’t hurt to double-check.
Search the update version online.
Visit the official site manually instead of clicking links.
And if something feels off — wait.

✅ Tip: Scammers rely on urgency. If you take a moment to think, you’ve already won half the battle.

Key points to remember

Real updates come from trusted apps, OS settings, or official sites
Never trust updates from pop-ups, ads, or random downloads
Watch for suspicious language, URLs, and forced downloads
Use security tools to filter out known threats
If in doubt, search it yourself — don’t click blindly