Today this popped up on my screen in Safari & won't go away. I've done Force Quit & Restarted Computer. Each time I open Safari this is on the screen. I'm running OS X 10.9.4
What do I do? Have I been hacked?
MacBook Pro, OS X Mavericks (10.9.4)
This is what keeps showing up
It's malware ... (not a virus)
You haven't been hacked and do not call the 1-855 number. It's a hoax.
Download and run the adware removal tool here > The Safe Mac » Adware Removal Guide
Easy, safe, and only takes a minute or two.
It's not a virus. Do not download or install anything in an effort to fix it.
If the scam webpage continues to appear write back for additional instructions.
Thank you both! I ran the adware & it didn't work at first but as I worked through the other options in the removal guide it did work.
I'm concerned that someone hacked into my computer from an online site to steal information. Is that possible?
No
I'm concerned that someone hacked into my computer from an online site to steal information. Is that possible?
From what you describe, no. Adware's typical goal is to convince you to spend money on something you don't need. If you were to call that telephone number they would gleefully accept credit card payment in whatever amount they can convince you to spend, for the answer that you just got on this site for free. That assumes they know what they're doing, which isn't guaranteed.
A greater threat is that during the phone conversation, they convince you to install a remote access tool (a/k/a RAT - TeamViewer is an example of one) that would enable them to log in to your computer remotely for whatever nefarious purpose that may entail. Clearly you didn't do that.
In an abundance of caution, go to the Safari menu > Preferences > Privacy, and select Remove All Website Data... > Remove Now.
You will need to sign in again with all websites that require authentication (such as this one).
Thank you so much for your help!!!
Safari Virus? Pop up won't go away
