Look at the address bar if visible. If a "Microsoft" alert is hosted on a URL like security-alert-xyz123.com , it is a scam. Step-by-Step: What to Do If a Phishing Pop-Up Appears
Real system warnings and legitimate companies do not behave like cybercriminals. Look for these five telltale signs to identify a fake pop-up instantly: What It Looks Like Why It's Fake phishing pop ups
To protect yourself from phishing pop-ups, follow these best practices: Look at the address bar if visible
: If the pop-up locks your browser in full screen, try to minimize it or force quit the application. phishing pop ups