How tech support scams work Scammers may call you directly on the phone and pretend to be representatives of a tech company. They might even spoof the caller ID so that it displays a legitimate support phone number from a trusted company. They'll probably ask you to install applications that give them remote access to your device. Using remote access, these experienced scammers can ...

Protect yourself from malware and phishing Malware is short for malicious software, a program or file that is designed to specifically damage or disrupt a system, such as a virus, worm, or a Trojan horse. Bing disables links to potentially dangerous sites in our search results, and notifies you that the site may download malicious software that can harm your computer. Phishing (pronounced like ...

Your bank won't authorise your payment method (for example, your credit card is expired or blocked or has been declined). Contact your credit card company or bank and make sure that the payment method you're using has been activated and has available funds, and the transaction isn't being blocked for some reason.

Get help with purchase errors If you're having trouble completing an XBOX purchase, try our solutions to resolve your issue. Note If these solutions don't resolve your issue, make sure to review the info that's provided under “Additional support solutions” for the scenario that best fits your situation.

Microsoft will never proactively reach out to you to provide unsolicited PC or technical support. If you receive a phone call claiming to be from Microsoft, or see a pop-up window on your PC with a fake warning message and a phone number to call and get your "issue" fixed, it's better to be safe and not click any links or provide any personal information.

You can use Microsoft Family Safety to block apps used by family members on Windows, XBOX, Web safety, or Mobile. Select a tab below for instructions on how to use Microsoft Family Safety to block apps.

Windows 11 includes Smart App Control which can help to protect your device from potentially unwanted apps. Use a modern browser, such as the new Microsoft Edge. Microsoft Edge uses Microsoft Defender SmartScreen, which helps block potentially unwanted apps. Keep your device up-to-date with the latest updates for Windows, your browser, and your ...

If a desktop app can’t be installed, uninstalled, or updated in Windows 11, built‑in recovery options and troubleshooting steps can help resolve common issues such as incomplete installs or corrupted app data. Note Use these steps for Windows programs. If the app was installed from Microsoft Store, see Fix problems with apps from Microsoft ...

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Smart App Control, a Windows feature designed to block malicious, untrusted, or potentially unwanted apps from running on your device.

Review FAQs and learn how to troubleshoot mobile apps on Windows and the Windows Subsystem for Android™.