# Scareware

Malicious software or fake alerts that trick users into believing their device is infected, pressuring them into a payment or download.

**Scareware[↗](/scareware)** is malicious software or a fake security alert designed to frighten users into believing their device is infected with viruses or has a critical problem, pressuring them into paying for bogus software, calling a fraudulent support number, or downloading actual malware[↗](/malware) disguised as a fix. Pop-ups claiming "Your computer is infected" are a classic example.

Scareware relies entirely on psychological pressure rather than a real technical threat, exploiting fear and urgency to bypass careful judgment. Closing the browser tab or restarting the device, rather than clicking anything in the alert, is the safest response.