Fake Geek Squad Pop-Up Virus Alert and Support-Call Scam
Malicious or deceptive websites display fake Geek Squad antivirus alerts in the browser, claiming the computer is infected and urging victims to call a bogus Geek Squad helpline.
Part of: Fake Antivirus Scams
Last reviewed: 7 June 2026
Fake antivirus browser pop-ups impersonating Geek Squad are one of the most widely encountered tech-support scam formats. A website — often reached via an ad redirect, a search result on a low-quality site, or a malicious link — displays a full-screen alert mimicking a Windows security warning and bearing the Geek Squad or Best Buy logo. The alert claims the computer has been infected with a virus or that a Geek Squad subscription has detected a threat.
A prominent phone number is displayed with an instruction to call immediately. The alert may use browser features to make it difficult to close, such as opening repeated dialog boxes when the user attempts to leave the page.
Geek Squad does not send unsolicited pop-up virus alerts through websites. Real antivirus detections appear within the security software installed on the device, not in the browser.
How this scam works on the Best Buy Geek Squad brand
When the victim calls the number, they reach a fraudster posing as a Geek Squad technician. The agent confirms the infection is serious and offers to remove it via remote access. After installing a remote-access tool (TeamViewer, AnyDesk, or similar), the agent shows the victim fabricated evidence of infection — often the Windows Event Viewer — while using the remote access to browse sensitive files, view saved passwords, or access banking apps.
The victim is then charged a fee for the removal service, typically by credit card or gift card. Some operations also attempt to enrol the victim in a fake monthly protection plan.
Closed browsers and rebooting the computer generally eliminate the pop-up. The pop-up itself is not malware — it is a scare page designed to provoke a phone call.
Common red flags
- A full-screen browser alert claiming your computer has a virus, bearing the Geek Squad or Best Buy logo
- The alert is difficult or impossible to close using the standard browser close button
- A phone number is prominently displayed and the alert urges immediate contact
- The alert claims Geek Squad has detected the infection — Geek Squad does not monitor third-party computers remotely
- Windows sounds or audio warnings play to heighten alarm
How to protect yourself
- Close the browser using Task Manager (Ctrl+Alt+Delete on Windows) or Force Quit on Mac — the pop-up is not actual malware
- Do not call the number displayed in the alert
- If the browser is stuck, restart the computer and do not restore the previous session
- Run a legitimate security scan using Windows Defender or a trusted third-party antivirus after closing the pop-up
- The only real Geek Squad number is 1-800-GEEK-SQUAD, found at bestbuy.com
How to report it
- Report the fraudulent website to Google Safe Browsing at safebrowsing.google.com/safebrowsing/report_phish
- Report tech support scams to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov
- If you called the number and lost money, contact your bank and local law enforcement
Frequently asked questions
Is a Geek Squad pop-up in my browser a real virus warning?
No. Real antivirus alerts appear in the security software installed on your device, not in your web browser. A browser pop-up with a Geek Squad logo is always a tech-support scam. Close the browser and do not call the number.
I cannot close the pop-up. Has my computer been locked?
No. The browser may be using JavaScript dialogs to prevent easy closing. Open Task Manager or Force Quit, close the browser process entirely, then reopen the browser without restoring the previous session. Your computer is not locked.