Malware warning, from MS?

Running W7 Home Premium, continually updated except for KB3193414 for which I cannot find any info, but which I think wants me to "upgrade" to W10. Yesterday a large text box opened, with an ominous looped audio message telling me that my computer is infected with malware and a virus and threatening to shut it down "to avoid further damage to our network" if I didn't call the number shown within 5 minutes. This box showed along with other text, "error #268D3." We eventually did call, and wound up in a tech-support office by the sound of the background noises (other voices, etc.). We did note that at least one of the tabs that they eventually opened had a MS site on it, but this seems to be an entity called "MyTechBay". However, there are some possible red flags to all this, including some odd pronunciation and inflection in the warning message, and the strident urgency of the entire thing.

After a long phone conversation, we agreed to allow this agent to deal with the issue, but he came back to say it would require a "level 5 tech" and the cost would be either $160 for 3-month followup or $260 for 1-year. This second tech remotely worked on our computer for almost an hour, then called to say all was well, but left a phone number in case it wasn't. Also said that this is currently a widespread problem. Today we still get the same text box.

We have been using Windows Defender, Malwarebytes 2.2.1.1043, and Superantispyware (free version) and have stopped buying Norton as we used to on the advice that it only found older invaders. We've also been told that the router of our LAN provided some protection.

So, I have two questions-

1. Has anyone else run into this?

2. What should we be doing for protection?

 

Thanks for that quick response, as mentioned, I did have my suspicions. Yet another of life's lessons I have paid for. Do we have any recourse re the $?

Any comment on my second question, what sort(s) of protection should we be using?

 

Thanks both, just got off the phone w/ credit card co., might have dodged a bullet.

This fake repair outfit did say they added some sort of blocking software. I saw that they turned off Firewall and not sure what else until I check, my next move after this reply. So far, I have restored the computer to 11/25, the day before this all came up, and I'm going to reactivate the safeguard(s) they turned off.

Would appreciate some advice on protection software, whether MS or not. See the last paragraph in my original post for a list of what we've been using, and again, my thanks!

 

Norton was completely removed about two years ago. Suggestions?

 

Slowpoke 47, in the interest of a quick response, I'm going to recommend Microsoft Security Essentials. I use it on Win 7, along with Malwarebytes. MSSE provides real time protection in the background and auto updates when necessary.

 

Yes and I was about to recommend he look at our software list!

 

Thanks for the suggestions- won't be able to get to them until tomorrow, I'll post back then

 

Will not spend any time berating you for being an unfortunate victim. One lives & learns.

I, too, will say "No" to Norton, McAfee & the like.

To your requested recommendation...

MSE (Microsoft Security Essentials) and set it to scan nightly.
Malwarebytes - @ least the on-demand run wkly
SpywareBlaster - Manual updating is free, check wkly.

Use Adblocker
Make sure Pop--up Blocker is "On" in the OS

BTW, once you Upgrade to Windows 10, it has even (much) better security than 7

 

Millions are still happy with Windows7.
I run no AV and haven't had malware for eighteen months.
Just Malwarebytes and sometimes on line Eset scan.

 

"I run no AV"

Please note: Such a practice is not (ever) recommended! It is, actually, quite discouraged. Do not take this as a "suggested method".

 

All responses greatly appreciated. We already use Adblock Origin and malwarebytes. I did run the Norton removal tool back when I stopped using Norton, but I ran it again today to be sure (btw, starbuck's link does not work). Here's where I am at present:

In trying to install Security Essentials, not sure which of two options to choose: ENUS\amd64\MSEInstall.exe or ENUS\x86\MSEInstall.exe. We are running W7 Home Premium 64 bit.

I think I was able to put a hold on the payment to the phony outfit that started this issue. But their automated system is sending me congratulatory emails and this morning I had a phone message (from a person) which was of the "lucky for you we're here" variety.

I don't have a problem with paying for a program, if that is a better option. In fact, I've been looking for a "donate" button on this site to show my appreciation for the help on this issue, the second time this forum has saved my bacon.

 

Thank you. I have another (dumb) question: This program encourages me to set up a scheduled scan and shows a default of Sundays at 2 AM. Does the computer have to be on for the scan to happen?

 

Yes it does, but you can change the scheduled scan for anytime you wish. Say during the day when your machine is normally on.