In some cases, they are capable of accessing sensitive information as well. They gather details such as IP addresses, geolocations, addresses of visited websites, entered search queries, etc. PUAs are designed to open untrusted pages (including technical support scams), collect various user-system information, and serve advertisements. In any case, ignore all technical support scams.Īs mentioned, users often arrive at these pages due to PUAs installed on the browser and/or computer that promote (open) them. In such cases, they use this access to steal sensitive information, infect computers with malware (e.g., ransomware, Trojan), and for other malicious purposes. They often ask users for permission to access their computers remotely. Generally, when scammers behind these websites are contacted, they try to sell unnecessary software to unsuspecting users or trick them into paying for bogus services.

To restore access to the computer, fix the error, and remove detected threats, visitors are encouraged to call the +1-(888)-351-4098 number. Information such as email accounts, Facebook credentials, banking passwords, pictures and documents have also been compromised. The pop-up windows, which appear when this technical support website is visited, state that a Trojan, Spyware with error code #0x898778 has been detected and access to the computer has been blocked. Scammers and cyber criminals commonly employ this service for malicious purposes. Note that this site is hosted using the Amazon AWS service provided by Amazon. In any case, people do not often visit these scam pages intentionally. In most cases, users arrive at these sites through other dubious web pages, by clicking deceptive ads, or when installed PUAs open them. In some cases, scammers behind these pages attempt to trick visitors into providing remote access to their computers. They urge users to call the provided number and then pay for unnecessary services and software. Generally, scammers behind technical support scams such as this attempt to trick users into believing that their computers are infected, errors exist, etc. What is 'Windows Defender - Security Warning'?

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