Ox800VDS Fake Alert: What It Is and How to Protect Yourself?
The error code Ox800VDS is a scam designed by cybercriminals to scare users into believing their computer is infected with malware or locked due to suspicious activity. This fake alert mimics legitimate Microsoft or Windows Defender notifications, creating a sense of urgency to trick users into contacting a fraudulent “support” number.
However, this error is not a genuine Microsoft or Windows message. Instead, it’s a phishing scheme aimed at stealing personal information, financial details, or even gaining remote control of your device. Scammers rely on fear and urgency to push victims into calling the provided number, often resulting in financial loss or data theft. It’s crucial to remain calm and avoid engaging with the pop-up.
What to Do If You See This Fake Alert?
1. Do Not Call the Number
The first and most important step is simple: do not call the number displayed in the pop-up. Scammers use this as an opportunity to trick you into sharing personal or financial information or gaining remote access to your device. They may pose as legitimate representatives using professional language to seem credible. Falling for this tactic can lead to identity theft, financial loss, or unauthorized access to sensitive data.
2. Close the Pop-Up Immediately
By closing the pop-up, you can stop any immediate attempts to engage with the scam. Scammers often design these alerts to be persistent, disabling the standard “X” button or creating endless alert loops to make it seem like your system is compromised. If the pop-up won’t close normally, use Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) to force close your browser and prevent further exposure to malware or accidental interaction with the fake message.
3. Change All Passwords
After handling the initial pop-up, it’s essential to update all passwords for accounts logged into your device. This will prevent unauthorized access and reduce the risk of data theft. Ensure you use strong, unique passwords with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Wherever possible, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) to add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
4. Run a Full Antivirus Scan
To ensure your device is free of any malware, run a comprehensive antivirus scan. This will detect and remove any hidden malicious software and restore your system’s performance if it has been compromised. Use trusted antivirus programs like Windows Defender, Malwarebytes, or Norton, and ensure that your antivirus software is up to date. Regular scans are essential for ongoing protection and preventing future attacks.
5. Reset Your Browser Settings
If the pop-up reappears, resetting your browser settings to default can resolve the issue. This action will remove any adware, malicious extensions, or altered settings causing the pop-up to persist. Additionally, it will disable unwanted notifications that scammers might use to trigger future alerts. Resetting your browser can also improve overall performance by clearing cache and cookies that could be slowing down your browsing experience.
6. Monitor Your Financial Accounts
Even after securing your device, it’s important to monitor your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized activity. By keeping a close eye on your accounts, you can quickly detect fraudulent transactions and minimize the impact of any potential financial loss.
