Avoid getting scammed by sites showing a "Windows Firewall Warning Alert"

What is "Windows Firewall Warning Alert"?

"Windows Firewall Warning Alert" is a fake error message displayed by malicious websites. Research shows that, in most cases, users visit this site inadvertently - they are redirected by Potentially Unwanted Applications (PUAs) that infiltrate systems without permission. In addition to causing redirects, PUAs deliver intrusive advertisements, gather sensitive information, and sometimes misuse system resources to run unwanted processes.

"Windows Firewall Warning Alert" scam overview

The "Windows Firewall Warning Alert" error claims that the system has detected spyware that poses a threat to confidential data (logins, passwords, banking information, etc.) Therefore, users are encouraged to immediately contact "technical engineers" via a telephone number ["+1 (866) 475-7161"] provided.

These people then supposedly guide victims through the malware removal process. In fact, the "Windows Firewall Warning Alert" error is fake and a scam. Cyber criminals claim to be certified technicians and offer technical support (which is not needed) for a certain fee. All claims regarding computer infections are false.

In addition, criminals often attempt to gain remote access to users' computer. Once connected, they stealthily modify system settings and install malware. They then claim to detect additional issues and offer further help for an extra fee. In any case, never attempt to contact these people - the "Windows Firewall Warning Alert" error should be ignored.

It can be removed simply by closing the web browser (preferably, via Task Manager) or rebooting the system (some malicious sites employ scripts that prevent users from closing the browser). Note that after re-running the browser, you should never click "Restore Previous Session" (or similar), otherwise you will return to the malicious website.

As mentioned above, potentially unwanted applications generate various intrusive ads (coupons, banners, pop-ups, etc.) that conceal underlying content, thereby significantly diminishing the browsing experience. Furthermore intrusive advertisements might lead to malicious websites and/or even run scripts that download/install malware.

Therefore, even a single click can result in high-risk computer infections. Another downside is information tracking. Bear in mind that unwanted apps continually gather IP addresses, URLs visited, search queries, keystrokes, geo-locations, and other information that is likely to contain personal details.

Developers sell the information to third parties (potentially, cyber criminals) who misuse it to generate revenue. This behavior can lead to serious privacy issues or even identity theft.

Some potentially unwanted applications are also designed to misuse system resources to run unnecessary processes (e.g., to mine cryptocurrencies). In doing so, PUAs significantly diminish overall system performance. You are strongly advised to eliminate all unwanted programs immediately.

Threat Summary:

Name	"Windows Firewall Warning Alert" virus
Threat Type	Phishing, Scam, Social Engineering, Fraud
Fake Claim	The message claims that the system is damaged/infected and encourages users to contact fake tech support.
Tech Support Scammer Phone Number	+1-844-284-9696, +1-866-475-7161, +1-888-378-0188, +1-888-393-9323
Related Domains	findmyloveline[.]com
Detection Names (findmyloveline[.]com)	Fortinet (Phishing), Sophos (Malware), Full List Of Detections (VirusTotal)
Serving IP Address (findmyloveline[.]com)	198.54.115.71
Symptoms	Fake error messages, fake system warnings, pop-up errors, hoax computer scan.
Distribution methods	Compromised websites, rogue online pop-up ads, potentially unwanted applications.
Damage	Loss of sensitive private information, monetary loss, identity theft, possible malware infections.
Malware Removal (Windows)	To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your computer with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. ▼ Download Combo Cleaner To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. 7 days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by Rcs Lt, the parent company of PCRisk.com read more.

Technical support scam examples

There are many fake errors such as "Windows Firewall Warning Alert"; Error 268D3-XC00037, Microsoft System Security Alert, and Your Device Is Under Threat are just some examples. All claim that the system is infected, missing files, or damaged in other similar ways, however, these errors are designed only to extort money from unsuspecting users.

Potentially unwanted applications also share many similarities. By offering useful features, PUAs attempt to give the impression of legitimacy and trick users to install, however, rather than delivering any real value for regular users, they pose a direct threat to your privacy and Internet browsing safety.

How did potentially unwanted applications install on my computer?

Potentially unwanted apps are proliferated using intrusive advertisements and a deceptive marketing method called "bundling". Therefore, PUAs often infiltrate systems without express user consent. "Bundling" is stealth installation of third party applications with regular software/apps.

Developers are aware that many users rush download/installation processes. Therefore, "bundled" apps are hidden within "Custom/Advanced" options (or other sections) of these procedures. By skipping download/installation steps and clicking various dubious links/advertisements, users often expose their systems to risk of various infections.

How to avoid installation of potentially unwanted applications?

The key to computer safety is caution. Therefore, pay close attention when browsing the Internet and, especially when downloading/installing software. Bear in mind that criminals design intrusive ads to look legitimate.

Once clicked, however, they redirect to dubious sites (e.g., gambling, pornography, adult dating, etc.) If you experience these redirects, uninstall all suspicious applications and browser plug-ins.

Furthermore, carefully observe each window of the download/installation dialogs and opt-out of all additionally-included programs. Using a legitimate anti-virus/anti-spyware suite is also paramount.

Text presented in "Windows Firewall Warning Alert":

Windows Firewall Warning Alert
Malicious Spyware/Riskware Detected
Error #0x86672ee7
Please call us immediately at +1 (866) 475-7161
Do not ignore this critical alert.
If you close this page, your computer access will be disabled to prevent further damage to our network.
Your computer has alerted us that it has been infected with a Spyware and risk ware. The following information is being stolen...
Financial Data
Facebook Logins
Credit Card Details
Email Account Logins
Photos stored on this computer
You must contact us immediately so that our expert engineers can walk you through the removal process over the phone to protect your identity. Please call us within the next 5 minutes to prevent your computer from being disabled or from any information loss.

Operating System Windows
Browser Under Attack
IP Address Under Attack
Location Under Attack
Threat Level Very High

Another example of "Windows Firewall Warning Alert" pop-up scam:

Text presented within:

Pop-up in the front:

 

Windows Security
Google Chrome

That server also reports: " Your information is at a Serious risk.
Harmful malware infection Debug Malware error (code 0x80093acf). Call immediately to save Hard disk failure & Data loss. This Harmful malware is affecting your online information & can Track Financial Activity. @ +1-844-284-9696 TollFree".
Username
Password
[Ok] [Cancel]

 

Pop-up in the back:

 

VIRUS ALERT FROM MS-Windows
This computer is BLOCKED

Do not close this window and restart your computer
Your computer's registration key is Blocked.
Why we blocked your computer?
The window's registration key is illegal.
This window is using pirated software.
This window is sending virus over the internet.
This window is hacked or used from undefined location.
We block this computer for your security.
Contact MS-Windows helpline to reactivate your computer.
MS-Windows Security Tollfree:
+1-844-284-9696

 

Pop-up in the right-lower corner:

 

Windows Firewall Error
WARNING! 37 threats detected
Detected malicious programs can damage your computer and compromise your privacy.
It's strongly recommended to remove them immediately!
Potential risks: Infecting other computers on your network
Call-Helpline +1-844-284-9696 (TollFree)
[Continue unprotected] [Remove all threats now]

 

 

Background:

 

MS-Windows Security Tollfree:
+1-844-284-9696

Enter MS-Windows registration key to unblock.
ENTER KEY: [Submit]

Windows Firewall Warning !!!

Your Computer Detected Some Unwonted Activity.
This Will harm your computer data and track your financial activities
Kindly report this activity to +1-844-284-9696
[Chat Support] [Back to Safety]

Yet another example of Windows Firewall Warning Alert pop-up scam:

Another example of Windows Firewall Warning Alert pop-up scam:

Text presented within:

*** Microsoft-Windows-Firewall-Alert !!***

Why we blocked your computer?

Your System Detected Some Unusual Activity.

Call-Helpline +1-866-443-1118 (Toll Free)

Appearance of this scam variant (GIF):

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Quick menu:

• What is Windows Firewall Warning Alert?
• STEP 1. Uninstall deceptive applications using Control Panel.
• STEP 2. Remove rogue extensions from Google Chrome.
• STEP 3. Remove potentially unwanted plug-ins from Mozilla Firefox.
• STEP 4. Remove rogue extensions from Safari.
• STEP 5. Remove rogue plug-ins from Microsoft Edge.

Removal of potentially unwanted applications:

Windows 11 users:

Right-click on the Start icon, select Apps and Features. In the opened window search for the application you want to uninstall, after locating it, click on the three vertical dots and select Uninstall.

Windows 10 users:

Right-click in the lower left corner of the screen, in the Quick Access Menu select Control Panel. In the opened window choose Programs and Features.

Windows 7 users:

Click Start (Windows Logo at the bottom left corner of your desktop), choose Control Panel. Locate Programs and click Uninstall a program.

macOS (OSX) users:

Click Finder, in the opened screen select Applications. Drag the app from the Applications folder to the Trash (located in your Dock), then right click the Trash icon and select Empty Trash.

In the uninstall programs window, look for any suspicious/recently-installed applications, select these entries and click "Uninstall" or "Remove".

After uninstalling the potentially unwanted application, scan your computer for any remaining unwanted components or possible malware infections. To scan your computer, use recommended malware removal software.

Remove rogue extensions from Internet browsers:

Video showing how to remove potentially unwanted browser add-ons:

Remove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:

Click the Chrome menu icon  (at the top right corner of Google Chrome), select "More tools" and click "Extensions". Locate all recently-installed suspicious browser add-ons and remove them.

Optional method:

If you continue to have problems with removal of the "windows firewall warning alert" virus, reset your Google Chrome browser settings. Click the Chrome menu icon  (at the top right corner of Google Chrome) and select Settings. Scroll down to the bottom of the screen. Click the Advanced… link.

After scrolling to the bottom of the screen, click the Reset (Restore settings to their original defaults) button.

In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Google Chrome settings to default by clicking the Reset button.

Remove malicious plugins from Mozilla Firefox:

Click the Firefox menu (at the top right corner of the main window), select "Add-ons". Click on "Extensions", in the opened window remove all recently-installed suspicious browser plug-ins.

Optional method:

Computer users who have problems with "windows firewall warning alert" virus removal can reset their Mozilla Firefox settings.

Open Mozilla Firefox, at the top right corner of the main window, click the Firefox menu, in the opened menu, click Help.

Select Troubleshooting Information.

In the opened window, click the Refresh Firefox button.

In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Mozilla Firefox settings to default by clicking the Refresh Firefox button.

Remove malicious extensions from Safari:

Make sure your Safari browser is active, click Safari menu, and select Preferences....

In the opened window click Extensions, locate any recently installed suspicious extension, select it and click Uninstall.

Optional method:

Make sure your Safari browser is active and click on Safari menu. From the drop down menu select Clear History and Website Data...

In the opened window select all history and click the Clear History button.

Remove malicious extensions from Microsoft Edge:

Click the Edge menu icon  (at the upper-right corner of Microsoft Edge), select "Extensions". Locate all recently-installed suspicious browser add-ons and click "Remove" below their names.

Optional method:

If you continue to have problems with removal of the "windows firewall warning alert" virus, reset your Microsoft Edge browser settings. Click the Edge menu icon  (at the top right corner of Microsoft Edge) and select Settings.

In the opened settings menu select Reset settings.

Select Restore settings to their default values. In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Microsoft Edge settings to default by clicking the Reset button.

• If this did not help, follow these alternative instructions explaining how to reset the Microsoft Edge browser.

Summary:

Commonly, adware or potentially unwanted applications infiltrate Internet browsers through free software downloads. Note that the safest source for downloading free software is via developers' websites only. To avoid installation of adware, be very attentive when downloading and installing free software. When installing previously-downloaded free programs, choose the custom or advanced installation options – this step will reveal any potentially unwanted applications listed for installation together with your chosen free program.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is an online scam?

Online scams are deceptive content promoted on various rogue websites. They are created to trick users into performing specific actions, e.g., calling fake helplines, downloading/installing untrustworthy or malicious software, disclosing sensitive information, etc.

What is the purpose of online scams?

Online scams can serve varied purposes like selling personal data revealed by victims, using sensitive user data for illegal purposes, promoting dubious software, distributing malware, and so on. In summary, scams are designed to generate revenue for the cyber criminals behind them.

Why do I encounter fake pop-ups?

Fake pop-ups and other scams are run on rogue sites, which are usually accessed unintentionally. Most users enter these pages via mistyped URLs or redirects caused by other suspect webpages, deceptive browser notifications/ intrusive ads, or installed untrustworthy/harmful software.

I have allowed cyber criminals to remotely access my computer, what should I do?

First, you have to disconnect your device from the Internet. Secondly, remove any remote access tools you've installed per the cyber criminals' request (e.g., TeamViewer, AnyDesk, etc.) - as they might not need your permission to reaccess the system. Lastly, use an anti-virus program to perform a full system scan and remove all detected threats.

I have provided my personal information when tricked by a scam, what should I do?

If you've disclosed personal information like ID card details, credit card numbers, or similar - contact relevant authorities without delay. And if the provided data was log-in credentials - change the passwords of all potentially compromised accounts and contact their official support.

Will Combo Cleaner protect me from online scams and the malware they proliferate?

Combo Cleaner is capable of scanning the sites you visit, and it can detect rogue/malicious ones (including those that promote scams). It can block all further access to such websites as well. Furthermore, Combo Cleaner can scan your computer and eliminate most of the known malware infections. It is noteworthy that performing a full system scan is crucial, as sophisticated malicious programs usually hide deep within systems.

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