To protect Internet users from scarewares, Microsoft joined Edge Scareware Blocker, a tool to automatically block these untimely pop-up alerts that often serve for false technical support scams.
You are quietly sailing on the internet when, suddenly, an alert appears on your screen, noting that your device has been infected with a formidable malware. You are then encouraged to install software or antivirus, or to contact false technical support. Do not panic, your computer has nothing, it is simply a scareware scam (alarmiciel in good French), with formidable efficiency.
To protect Internet users a little more, Microsoft has offered Edge web browser for a while now Defender Smartscreen, a tool that blocks known scams when users meet them. But what happens if you are the first person to see a new scam before it can be blocked? This is why the company is launching a new function, called Scareware Blocker. This tool automatically blocks scarewares even before they start to invade the screens. A more than welcome initiative, which erects a first line of defense against the hidden scams behind malicious advertisements and fraudulent sites.
Scareware Blocker: a tool based on AI
Scareware Blocker relies on an automatic learning model integrated directly into Edge. He analyzes in real time the pages displayed and detects the typical scareware signals, such as using full screen mode, reading alarming sounds or behaviors designed to block the Internet user. Once the potential threat has been identified, the tool automatically restores control to the user, by leaving the full screen mode, by stopping aggressive audio reading and by displaying a warning message with a miniature page that has been consulted.
The advantage of this function is that it is used locally. In other words, the analysis runs entirely on the device, without your data or the recorded screenshots, being sent to Microsoft. This means that you have control of your personal data. The malicious site is reported to Microsoft only if, and only if, you agree to communicate the scam.
Scareware Blocker: a functionarnaque available in preview
Scareware Blocker is available in beta version, as part of the Edge Insider program. This allows users to preview the new functions under development. To access it, just go to the official Microsoft Edge Insider website and download the Canary version. Please note, the function is not activated by default. You have to go to Microsoft Edge’s settings, open the “Confidentiality, Research and Services” tab, then activate the “Scareware blocker” option in the “Security” section. The tool will then be deployed to the general public.
Please note, Microsoft warns that it cannot be 100 %effective, cybercriminals constantly inventing new scams. Also, we can only advise you to never click on suspicious links or pop-ups. If a window of this type appears, close your web browser immediately, then empty the cover and check your extensions. In addition, it is best to install an anti-virus to make it work in the background. If you are faced with this scam or any other, you must point out to the authorities so that they can take the necessary measures.