{"id":335858,"date":"2025-08-09T04:25:00","date_gmt":"2025-08-09T04:25:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/?p=335858"},"modified":"2026-02-23T03:59:28","modified_gmt":"2026-02-23T03:59:28","slug":"i-have-to-share-bad-news-with-you-email-scam","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/i-have-to-share-bad-news-with-you-email-scam\/","title":{"rendered":"\u201cI Have To Share Bad News With You\u201d Email Scam Explained"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It starts with a jarring subject line \u2014 <em>\u201cI have to share bad news with you.\u201d<\/em> Your heart skips a beat. As you read, panic sets in. The email claims your device has been hacked, your private activities have been recorded, and unless you pay up in Bitcoin, those secrets will be shared with the world.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad4014950775\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309684--placement_360520\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3957935887\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But is it real?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This article will break down exactly what\u2019s going on, how the scam works in detail, what to do if you\u2019ve received or fallen victim to one of these emails, and how to stay safe in the future.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1656161960\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381396-ad_309691-placement_360566\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1471373341\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"494\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/2025-04-09_072256-1024x494.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-335859\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/2025-04-09_072256-1024x494.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/2025-04-09_072256-300x145.jpg 300w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/2025-04-09_072256.jpg 1116w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad4125535228\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309746-ad_309691-placement_360521\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"4456629336\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Rise of the \u201cI Have To Share Bad News With You\u201d Email<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The \u201cI Have To Share Bad News With You\u201d email is a modern form of <em>sextortion<\/em> \u2014 a psychological blackmail tactic designed to extract money by preying on fear, shame, and urgency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What the Scam Looks Like<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The message usually comes with a threatening subject like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cPayment from your account\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cI have access to your device\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cYou have 48 hours to comply\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Inside the email, the scammer outlines a disturbing narrative. They claim to have:<\/p><div id=\"mwtad4035404639\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309686-ad_309691-placement_360569\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6935453015\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hacked your email account.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Installed malware or a Trojan virus.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gained control of your webcam and microphone.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Recorded you in compromising situations (usually on adult websites).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Collected your browsing history, contacts, and private data.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The email ends with a ransom demand \u2014 often around <strong>$950 in Bitcoin<\/strong> \u2014 with threats to publicly release the alleged video footage if payment isn&#8217;t made within <strong>48 hours<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let\u2019s be clear: <strong>this is a scam.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here is how the scam email might look:<\/p><div id=\"mwtad3459473892\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381401-ad_309691-placement_360573\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"5315249587\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Greetings!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I have to share bad news with you.<br \/>Approximately few months ago I have gained access to your devices, which you use for internet browsing.<br \/>After that, I have started tracking your internet activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here is the sequence of events:<br \/>Some time ago I have purchased access to email accounts from hackers (nowadays, it is quite simple to purchase such thing online).<br \/>Obviously, I have easily managed to log in to your email account<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One week later, I have already installed Trojan virus to Operating Systems of all the devices that you use to access your email.<br \/>In fact, it was not really hard at all (since you were following the links from your inbox emails).<br \/>All ingenious is simple. =)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This software provides me with access to all the controllers of your devices (e.g., your microphone, video camera and keyboard).<br \/>I have downloaded all your information, data, photos, web browsing history to my servers.<br \/>I have access to all your messengers, social networks, emails, chat history and contacts list.<br \/>My virus continuously refreshes the signatures (it is driver-based), and hence remains invisible for antivirus software.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Likewise, I guess by now you understand why I have stayed undetected until this letter&#8230;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While gathering information about you, I have discovered that you are a big fan of adult websites.<br \/>You really love visiting porn websites and watching exciting videos, while enduring an enormous amount of pleasure.<br \/>Well, I have managed to record a number of your dirty scenes and montaged a few videos, which show the way you masturbate and reach orgasms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you have doubts, I can make a few clicks of my mouse and all your videos will be shared to your friends, colleagues and relatives.<br \/>I have also no issue at all to make them available for public access.<br \/>I guess, you really don&#8217;t want that to happen, considering the specificity of the videos you like to watch, (you perfectly know what I mean) it will cause a true catastrophe for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let&#8217;s settle it this way:<br \/>You transfer $950 USD to me (in bitcoin equivalent according to the exchange rate at the moment of funds transfer), and once the transfer is received, I will delete all this dirty stuff right away.<br \/>After that we will forget about each other. I also promise to deactivate and delete all the harmful software from your devices. Trust me, I keep my word.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is a fair deal and the price is quite low, considering that I have been checking out your profile and traffic for some time by now.<br \/>In case, if you don&#8217;t know how to purchase and transfer the bitcoins &#8211; you can use any modern search engine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here is my bitcoin wallet: 1L6XxPRuLJdr6JCqw8dwNUm1wFLisrGREL, 1LKWDMofCWVgDSUH3Qoui6LxJ2VSUtsDCE, 1xPr18gM8YKsaiUkGz9MgpjtwcBQcME2i, 16aqr3rXxCtxa8AK3ErftnBQLfzyyhjpXJ, 1Hjpu99iHc3oi55ZJKf6RHhKbwit8vEzTS<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You have less than 48 hours from the moment you opened this email (precisely 2 days).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Things you need to avoid from doing:<br \/>*Do not reply me (I have created this email inside your inbox and generated the return address).<br \/>*Do not try to contact police and other security services. In addition, forget about telling this to you friends. If I discover that (as you can see, it is really not so hard, considering that I control all your systems) &#8211; your video will be shared to public right away.<br \/>*Don&#8217;t try to find me &#8211; it is absolutely pointless. All the cryptocurrency transactions are anonymous.<br \/>*Don&#8217;t try to reinstall the OS on your devices or throw them away. It is pointless as well, since all the videos have already been saved at remote servers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Things you don&#8217;t need to worry about:<br \/>*That I won&#8217;t be able to receive your funds transfer.<br \/>&#8211; Don&#8217;t worry, I will see it right away, once you complete the transfer, since I continuously track all your activities (my trojan virus has got a remote-control feature, something like TeamViewer).<br \/>*That I will share your videos anyway after you complete the funds transfer.<br \/>&#8211; Trust me, I have no point to continue creating troubles in your life. If I really wanted that, I would do it long time ago!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Everything will be done in a fair manner!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One more thing&#8230; Don&#8217;t get caught in similar kind of situations anymore in future!<br \/>My advice &#8211; keep changing all your passwords on a frequent basis<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>No Real Hack Took Place<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These emails are sent out in bulk by cybercriminals. The vast majority of recipients have not been hacked. There\u2019s no virus. No video. No backdoor access.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The attackers are relying on fear and emotional manipulation \u2014 not actual technical prowess.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>A Psychological Trap<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What makes the scam so effective is its calculated use of:<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1297095646\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381404-ad_309691-placement_381406\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"8735619847\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Fear<\/strong>: Threats of exposure tap into primal emotions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Shame<\/strong>: Adult content is stigmatized; people fear being judged.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Urgency<\/strong>: The 48-hour deadline creates panic and clouded thinking.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Isolation<\/strong>: Victims are warned not to tell anyone or contact authorities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s blackmail without proof \u2014 but the psychology can be powerful enough to make people pay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad204721698\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309747-ad_309691-placement_360587\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"9589536513\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How the Scam Works<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let\u2019s dig deeper into the mechanics behind the \u201cI Have To Share Bad News With You\u201d email scam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 1: Massive Email Harvesting<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers begin by obtaining a <strong>large database of email addresses<\/strong>. These can come from:<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2683455386\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360582-ad_309691-placement_360581\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"9971336976\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Data breaches (Yahoo, LinkedIn, etc.).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leaked credentials on the dark web.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Public or poorly protected databases.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some of these lists include <strong>plaintext passwords<\/strong>, which adds a disturbing level of realism when scammers mention an old or real password in the email.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 2: Automated Email Distribution<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Using spam-sending software or botnets, the scammer sends out <strong>millions of emails<\/strong>. The message is often identical, but the email address and sometimes the name or password are auto-inserted to make it feel personalized.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The subject lines are designed to:<\/p><div id=\"mwtad599255507\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360567-ad_309691-placement_360771\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6224621518\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Grab attention<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Create fear<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid spam filters<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Examples include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cYour computer was hacked\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cUrgent warning\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u201cI recorded you\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 3: False Claims of Malware and Video Evidence<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The core of the scam is the <strong>fabricated story<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A Trojan was installed on your system.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The attacker accessed your webcam and microphone.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You were caught watching explicit material.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>They compiled embarrassing videos.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s all lies.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad843317269\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360571-ad_309691-placement_360772\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"5867729999\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is <strong>no malware<\/strong>, no surveillance, and no videos. The scammers are banking on the possibility that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You\u2019ve visited adult websites at some point.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You might believe it\u2019s possible you were recorded.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You\u2019re too afraid to ask for help.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 4: Demand for Bitcoin Payment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The scammer demands payment to a <strong>Bitcoin wallet<\/strong>, often giving multiple addresses. Cryptocurrency is used because it is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Pseudonymous<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hard to trace<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Irreversible once sent<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The email typically includes lines like:<\/p><div id=\"mwtad4190146415\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360576-ad_309691-placement_360773\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6594472392\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;Once the transfer is received, I will delete all this dirty stuff right away.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But of course, even if someone pays, there\u2019s no guarantee the threats will stop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step 5: Watch and Wait<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After the emails are sent, scammers <strong>monitor the wallets<\/strong>. If someone pays, they might mark the address as \u201cpaid\u201d and move on, or worse \u2014 <strong>target them again<\/strong> with more threats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some scammers even <strong>sell \u201cgullible victim\u201d lists<\/strong> to others, ensuring a victim gets bombarded with additional scams.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2642436893\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360583-ad_309691-placement_360774\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"8849826992\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad3243239872\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309748-ad_309691-placement_360588\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3906789406\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What to Do If You\u2019ve Received This Email<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The most important thing to remember: <strong>don\u2019t panic<\/strong>. If you\u2019ve received this email but haven\u2019t paid, here\u2019s what to do:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. <strong>Do Not Respond<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Never reply to the scammer. Engaging only confirms that your email address is active and monitored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. <strong>Do Not Pay<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad366232660\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360584-ad_309691-placement_360775\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3952847241\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is no video. This is a bluff. Paying only feeds the scam industry and could make you a repeat target.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. <strong>Change Your Passwords Immediately<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the email includes a <strong>real password<\/strong> you\u2019ve used before, change it <strong>right away<\/strong> \u2014 especially if you still use it anywhere else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Focus on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Email accounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Banking logins<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Social media platforms<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use a <strong>strong, unique password<\/strong> for each account and enable <strong>two-factor authentication<\/strong> wherever possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. <strong>Scan Your Devices<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even though most of these threats are fake, it\u2019s good practice to run a full malware and antivirus scan:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use a reputable tool like Malwarebytes, Norton, or Bitdefender.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Update your OS and software to patch known vulnerabilities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. <strong>Report the Scam<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Help stop the spread by reporting the email to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>FTC (U.S.):<\/strong> <a>reportfraud.ftc.gov<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>FBI IC3:<\/strong> <a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ic3.gov\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.ic3.gov<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>UK Action Fraud:<\/strong> <a>www.actionfraud.police.uk<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Canada:<\/strong> <a>www.cyber.gc.ca<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can also forward the scam email to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a>report@phishing.gov.uk<\/a><\/strong> (UK)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a>reportphishing@apwg.org<\/a><\/strong> (Global phishing reports)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. <strong>Alert Others<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tell your friends, family, or coworkers. These scams thrive in silence. Spreading awareness reduces the scam\u2019s effectiveness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad2143237203\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_318930-ad_309691-placement_360589\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3818335085\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What to Do If You\u2019ve Already Paid<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you sent Bitcoin to the scammer, you\u2019re likely feeling helpless. Here&#8217;s what you can do:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. <strong>Save All Evidence<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Keep the email with full headers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Note the Bitcoin wallet addresses used.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Screenshot your Bitcoin transaction.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This documentation is important for law enforcement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. <strong>Report Immediately<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Contact your local cybercrime unit or file a report through one of these portals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>IC3.gov<\/strong> (FBI)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Europol<\/strong> (Europe)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>ActionFraud<\/strong> (UK)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>CyberTip.ca<\/strong> (Canada)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While recovery is unlikely, reports help track scam operations and shut down wallet activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. <strong>Consider Identity Theft Protection<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a real password was leaked, your information may be floating on the dark web. It\u2019s worth:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Monitoring your credit<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Freezing your credit reports<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Signing up for identity protection services like LifeLock, Aura, or IdentityForce<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. <strong>Increase Your Digital Hygiene<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is your wake-up call to secure your digital footprint. Immediately:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Update all major passwords<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use a password manager (e.g., Bitwarden, 1Password)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Turn on 2FA across all accounts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Audit which websites or apps have access to your email<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad2759450093\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381388-ad_309691-placement_381390\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3191649120\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2>Is Your Device Infected? Run a Free Malware Scan<\/h2>\n\n<p>Slow performance, constant pop-ups, or strange behavior? These are classic signs of a malware infection. The fastest way to find out is to scan your device with <strong>Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free<\/strong> \u2014 one of the most trusted malware removal tools available.<\/p>\n\n<p>The free version detects and removes the most common threats, including:<\/p>\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Adware<\/strong> \u2014 the cause of those annoying pop-ups<\/li>\n<li><strong>Browser hijackers<\/strong> \u2014 unwanted redirects and changed homepages<\/li>\n<li><strong>Trojans and spyware<\/strong> \u2014 hidden programs stealing your data<\/li>\n<li><strong>Potentially unwanted programs (PUPs)<\/strong> \u2014 software you never asked for<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p>\ud83d\udc49 <strong>Select your device below<\/strong> \u2014 Windows, Mac, or Android \u2014 then follow the simple steps to download Malwarebytes, scan your system, and remove any threats it finds. The whole process takes about 5 minutes.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"su-tabs su-tabs-style-default su-tabs-mobile-stack\" data-active=\"1\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-tabs-nav\"><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Malwarebytes for Windows<\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Malwarebytes for Mac<\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Malwarebytes for Android<\/span><\/div><div class=\"su-tabs-panes\"><div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Windows\">\n\n<h3 id=\"windowsh3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows<\/h3>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Malwarebytes<\/strong> is one of the most popular and trusted anti-malware tools for Windows \u2014 and it&#8217;s completely free for removing infections. It catches threats that many antivirus programs miss, including adware, browser hijackers, and trojans. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your PC in just a few minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes<\/p> <p>Click the button below to download the latest version of <strong>Malwarebytes for Windows<\/strong> from the official source. The free version is all you need \u2014 it will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software at no cost.<\/p> <div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\"\/><\/figure> <strong><a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/downloads\/MBSetup-076886.076886-consumer.exe\" onclick=\"window.open(&#039;https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/malwarebytes-free&#039;);\">DOWNLOAD MALWAREBYTES FOR WINDOWS (FREE)<br \/>\n<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em class=\"small-text-disclaimer\">(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)<\/em><\/div><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Install Malwarebytes<\/p>\n\n<p>When the download finishes, open your <strong>Downloads<\/strong> folder and <strong>double-click the MBSetup file<\/strong>. If Windows shows a <strong>User Account Control<\/strong> pop-up, click &#8220;<em>Yes<\/em>&#8221; to allow the installation.<\/p>\n\n \n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"975\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285934\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1.jpg 975w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1-300x154.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 975px) 100vw, 975px\" \/><\/figure>\n \n\n \n  \n\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes<\/p> \n\n<p>The setup wizard will walk you through a few quick screens:<\/p>\n\n<ul>\n \n  <li>\n    <p>Choose where you&#8217;re installing the program \u2014 &#8220;<strong>Personal Computer<\/strong>&#8221; or &#8220;<strong>Work Computer<\/strong>&#8221; \u2014 then click <strong>Next<\/strong>.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"737\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285953\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1.jpg 737w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1-300x204.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 737px) 100vw, 737px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>Malwarebytes will now install on your device. This usually takes under a minute.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"759\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285937\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4.jpg 759w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4-300x198.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 759px) 100vw, 759px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>When installation is complete, the &#8220;<strong>Welcome to Malwarebytes<\/strong>&#8221; screen will open automatically.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"705\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285951\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1.jpg 705w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 705px) 100vw, 705px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>On the final screen, click <strong>Open Malwarebytes<\/strong> to launch the program.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"749\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285952\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1.jpg 749w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 749px) 100vw, 749px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Enable &#8220;Scan for Rootkits&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Before scanning, turn on rootkit detection so Malwarebytes can find even the most hidden threats. Click the <strong>Settings<\/strong> gear icon on the left side of the screen.\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285942\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the settings menu, find &#8220;<strong>Scan for rootkits<\/strong>&#8221; and click the toggle so it turns blue.\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"841\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285943\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9.jpg 841w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 841px) 100vw, 841px\" \/><\/figure>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Done? Click &#8220;<strong>Dashboard<\/strong>&#8221; in the left pane to return to the main screen.\n\n <\/p><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Start the Scan<\/p> <p>Click the blue <strong>Scan<\/strong> button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its virus database and start checking your computer for malware.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"849\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285941\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10.jpg 849w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 849px) 100vw, 849px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Scan to Finish<\/p>\n<p>The scan checks your entire system for browser hijackers and other malicious programs, so it can take several minutes. Feel free to do something else \u2014 just check back occasionally to see the progress.<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285944\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Quarantine the Detected Threats<\/p>\n<p>When the scan is done, you&#8217;ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found \u2014 malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. Click the &#8220;<strong>Quarantine<\/strong>&#8221; button to remove all of them at once.<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285945\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12.jpg 844w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n<p>Malwarebytes will now remove the malicious files and registry entries and move them safely into quarantine.\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285946\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n <\/p><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n  <p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart Your Computer<\/p>\n  <p>Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot. If Malwarebytes asks you to restart, click <strong>Yes<\/strong>. Once you&#8217;re logged back in, your PC is clean and you can continue with the next steps in this guide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285947\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14.jpg 844w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<p>When the scan finishes, click <strong>Quarantine<\/strong> to remove everything Malwarebytes found. That&#8217;s it \u2014 your Windows PC is now clean of trojans, adware, and other malware, and should be back to running smoothly.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future.<br \/>If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Run a computer scan with <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.eset.com\/us\/home\/online-scanner\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">ESET Online Scanner<\/a><\/strong><\/li><li>Ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Malware Removal Assistance for Windows\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/windows-malware-removal-help-support.10\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Windows Malware Removal Help &amp; Support<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Mac\">\n\n<h3 id=\"mach3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Mac<\/h3>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Malwarebytes for Mac<\/strong> is a free on-demand scanner that removes the malware other security software tends to miss \u2014 adware, browser hijackers, and unwanted programs included. Cleaning an infected Mac with Malwarebytes has always been completely free, and it&#8217;s our go-to recommendation. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your Mac in just a few minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes for Mac<\/p>\n<p>Click the button below to download the latest version of <strong>Malwarebytes for Mac<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\"\/><\/figure><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/prf.hn\/click\/camref:1011lvqrV\/creativeref:1011l100234\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">DOWNLOAD MALWAREBYTES FOR MAC (FREE)<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em>(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)<\/em><\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Open the Malwarebytes setup file<\/p>\n<p>When the download finishes, open your <em>Downloads<\/em> folder and <strong>double-click the setup file<\/strong> to begin the installation.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98734 alignnone\" title=\"Double-click on setup file to install Malwarebytes\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer.jpg\" alt=\"Double-click on setup file to install Malwarebytes\" width=\"750\" height=\"424\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-300x170.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes<\/p>\n<p>The <em>Malwarebytes for Mac Installer<\/em> will guide you through a few quick screens. Click &#8220;<strong>Continue<\/strong>&#8221; and keep following the prompts until the installation completes.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98735 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-1.jpg\" alt=\"Click Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"532\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-1.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-1-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98736 alignnone\" title=\"Click again on Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac for Mac\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-2.jpg\" alt=\"Click again on Continue to install Malwarebytes for Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"531\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-2.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-2-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98737 alignnone\" title=\"Click Install to install Malwarebytes on Mac\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-4.jpg\" alt=\"Click Install to install Malwarebytes on Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"531\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-4.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Installer-Step-4-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>When the installation is complete, Malwarebytes opens to the <em>Welcome to Malwarebytes<\/em> screen. Click &#8220;<strong>Get started<\/strong>&#8220;.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Select &#8220;Personal Computer&#8221; or &#8220;Work Computer&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes will ask what type of computer you&#8217;re installing it on. Click either <strong>Personal Computer<\/strong> or <strong>Work Computer<\/strong>, whichever applies.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98740 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Select-Personal-Computer.jpg\" alt=\"Select Personal Computer or Work Computer mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"537\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Select-Personal-Computer.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Select-Personal-Computer-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Start the Scan<\/p>\n<p>Click the &#8220;<strong>Scan<\/strong>&#8221; button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its detection database and begin checking your Mac for malware.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98733 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Scan.jpg\" alt=\"Click on Scan button to start a system scan Mac\" width=\"750\" height=\"538\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Scan.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Scan-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Scan to Finish<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes will scan your Mac for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This can take a few minutes, so feel free to do something else \u2014 just check back occasionally to see the progress.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98739 alignnone\" title=\"Wait for Malwarebytes for Mac to scan your computer\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Scanning-for-malware.jpg\" alt=\"Wait for Malwarebytes for Mac to scan for malware\" width=\"750\" height=\"536\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Scanning-for-malware.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Scanning-for-malware-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Quarantine the Detected Threats<\/p>\n<p>When the scan is done, you&#8217;ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found. Click the &#8220;<strong>Quarantine<\/strong>&#8221; button to remove all the threats at once.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98732 alignnone\" title=\"Review the malicious programs and click on Quarantine\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Confirm.jpg\" alt=\"Review the malicious programs and click on Quarantine to remove malware\" width=\"750\" height=\"538\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Confirm.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Click-Confirm-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart Your Mac<\/p> <p>Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files it found. Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot \u2014 if Malwarebytes asks you to restart, allow it. Once you&#8217;re logged back in, your Mac is clean.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"750\" height=\"536\" class=\"size-full wp-image-98738 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Restart.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes For Mac requesting to restart computer\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Restart.jpg 750w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Malwarebytes-Mac-Restart-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><br \/><\/p> <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<p>Once the scan is done, remove every threat it detected. Your Mac is now free of adware, rogue browser extensions, and other potentially harmful software.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future.<br \/>If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Mac Malware Removal Help &amp; Support\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/mac-malware-removal-help-support.183\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Mac Malware Removal Help &amp; Support<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/p>\n\n\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Malwarebytes for Android\">\n\n<h3 id=\"androidh3\" class=\"toch3\">Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android<\/h3>\n\n<p>Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don&#8217;t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.<\/p>\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes for Android.<\/p>\n<p>You can download <strong>Malwarebytes for Android<\/strong> by clicking the link below.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\"\/><\/figure><div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=org.malwarebytes.antimalware&#038;hl=en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">MALWAREBYTES FOR ANDROID DOWNLOAD LINK<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em>(The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes for Android)<\/em><\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Install Malwarebytes for Android on your phone.<\/p>\n<p>In the Google Play Store, tap &#8220;<strong>Install<\/strong>&#8221; to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106940\" title=\"Tap Install to install Malwarebytes for Android\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Google-Play-App.jpg\" alt=\"Tap Install to install Malwarebytes for Android\" width=\"292\" height=\"580\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Google-Play-App.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Google-Play-App-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>When the installation process has finished, tap &#8220;<strong>Open<\/strong>&#8221; to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106941\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Open-App.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes for Android - Open App\" width=\"292\" height=\"578\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Open-App.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Open-App-152x300.jpg 152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process<\/p>\n<p>When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the <em>Malwarebytes Setup Wizard<\/em> which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options.<br \/>This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106944\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 1\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-1.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 1\" width=\"292\" height=\"577\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-1.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-1-152x300.jpg 152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><br \/>Tap on &#8220;<strong>Got it<\/strong>&#8221; to proceed to the next step.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106945\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 2\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-2.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 2\" width=\"292\" height=\"580\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-2.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-2-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><br \/>Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on &#8220;<strong>Give permission<\/strong>&#8221; to continue.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106946\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 3\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-3.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 3\" width=\"292\" height=\"570\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-3.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-3-154x300.jpg 154w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><br \/>Tap on &#8220;Allow&#8221; to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106947\" title=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 4\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-7.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Setup Screen 4\" width=\"292\" height=\"573\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-7.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Setup-Wizard-7-153x300.jpg 153w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android<\/p>\n<p>You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106939\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Fix-Issues.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes fix issue\" width=\"292\" height=\"579\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Fix-Issues.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Fix-Issues-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>Click on &#8220;<strong>Update database<\/strong>&#8221; to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on &#8220;<strong>Run full scan<\/strong>&#8221; to perform a system scan.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106948\" title=\"Update database and run Malwarebytes scan\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Update-Run-Scan.jpg\" alt=\"Update database and run Malwarebytes scan on phone\" width=\"291\" height=\"575\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Update-Run-Scan.jpg 291w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Update-Run-Scan-152x300.jpg 152w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 291px) 100vw, 291px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106943\" title=\"Malwarebytes scanning phone for malware\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Scanning-for-Malware.jpg\" alt=\"Malwarebytes scanning Android for Vmalware\" width=\"292\" height=\"579\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Scanning-for-Malware.jpg 292w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Scanning-for-Malware-151x300.jpg 151w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Click on &#8220;Remove Selected&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the &#8220;<strong>Remove Selected<\/strong>&#8221; button.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-106942\" title=\"Tap on the Remove button to get rid of malware\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Removing-Malware.jpg\" alt=\"Remove malware from your phone\" width=\"760\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Removing-Malware.jpg 760w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Malwarebytes-for-Android-Removing-Malware-300x237.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) 100vw, 760px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart your phone.<\/p>\n<p>Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<hr \/>\n\n<p>After the scan, tap <strong>Remove Selected<\/strong> to delete all detected threats. Your Android phone is now clean \u2014 no more malicious apps, adware, or browser redirects.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future.<br \/>If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Restore your phone to factory settings by going to <em>Settings &gt; General management &gt; Reset &gt; Factory data reset.<\/em><\/li><li>Ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Mobile Malware Removal Help &amp; Support\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/mobile-malware-removal-help-support.165\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Mobile Malware Removal Help &amp; Support<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<h3>Stay Protected: Block Ads and Malicious Sites<\/h3>\n\n<p>Now that your device is clean, keep it that way. Most infections start with a malicious ad or a fake download button \u2014 so blocking them at the source is your best defense.<\/p>\n\n<p>We recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/adguard.com\/?aid=29616\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><strong>AdGuard<\/strong><\/a>, which blocks malicious ads, phishing pages, and dangerous redirects before they can reach you.<\/p>\n\n<p>\ud83d\udc49 <a href=\"https:\/\/adguard.com\/?aid=29616\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><strong>Download AdGuard and browse safely<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad3820070489\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381392-ad_309691-placement_381395\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"2944237110\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What is the \u201cI Have To Share Bad News With You\u201d email scam?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s a widespread email-based sextortion scam. The message claims the sender has hacked your device, recorded you via your webcam during private activity (typically while viewing adult websites), and threatens to release the footage unless you pay a ransom in Bitcoin. In reality, these threats are false and no actual hacking or recording has occurred.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Is this email real? Was I really hacked?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No, the email is not legitimate. It is part of a scam designed to manipulate your emotions through fear and shame. In most cases, there has been no hacking, no malware installed, and no webcam access. The scammer is bluffing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why does the email mention one of my passwords?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers often use old or leaked passwords from past data breaches to make their threats seem more credible. If the email includes a password you recognize, it likely came from a compromised website database that was made public or sold on the dark web. It does not mean your computer has been hacked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What should I do if I receive this email?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not respond, do not send money, and do not panic. Instead:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Change any passwords that were mentioned or are weak\/reused.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Run a security scan on your device.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Report the scam to appropriate authorities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inform others so they don\u2019t fall victim.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Should I pay the ransom?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Absolutely not. Paying the scammer won\u2019t protect you because there is no actual video or hack. In fact, paying may make you a target for more scams in the future, as you\u2019ve now proven you can be manipulated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Can the scammer really access my webcam or files?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In almost all cases, no. These emails are sent in mass batches and are not based on real hacking activity. There\u2019s no evidence they\u2019ve installed malware or accessed your camera. They are hoping you\u2019ll believe the story and act out of fear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How did they get my email address?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your email address may have been exposed in a past data breach. Attackers often compile email lists from:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Leaked or stolen databases<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Public records<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Purchased mailing lists<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re unsure whether your data has been exposed, you can check on websites like <a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/haveibeenpwned.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">HaveIBeenPwned.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Is there malware on my device?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Typically, no. These emails are bluffs. However, it\u2019s still a good idea to scan your device using a trusted antivirus or anti-malware tool to ensure your system is clean.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How do I check if a Bitcoin wallet has been used in scams before?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can use public blockchain explorer websites like Blockchain.com or tools like BitcoinAbuse.com to check if a wallet has been reported in scams. Paste the address into the search to see its history and reported activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What happens if I ignore the email?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nothing. This is the best course of action. The scammer will move on to other targets if they don\u2019t get a response or payment. You will not be harmed, and no videos will be released because they don\u2019t exist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What if I already sent the money? Can I get it back?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unfortunately, no. Bitcoin transactions are irreversible. Once sent, the funds are gone. You should:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Report the incident to law enforcement or a cybercrime agency.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Save all email communications and transaction data.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Take steps to protect your identity and secure your accounts.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Is it possible this is a targeted attack against me personally?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No, these emails are not personalized or targeted. They are part of a mass scam campaign designed to look personal. The same email has been sent to thousands or even millions of people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What should I do if I\u2019m still worried or anxious?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s completely normal to feel anxious after receiving a threatening email. But remember, the power of this scam lies in emotional manipulation, not real evidence. If you need extra reassurance:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Talk to a trusted friend or family member.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contact a local cybersecurity support service or helpline.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Read public advisories from your country\u2019s fraud prevention agencies.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How can I protect myself from scams like this in the future?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To reduce your chances of being targeted or falling for future scams:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use strong, unique passwords for each account.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Regularly update your software and operating system.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Be skeptical of unexpected emails, especially those that create fear or urgency.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Educate yourself about common online scams.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Who should I report this scam to?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can report the scam to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>United States:<\/strong> <a>reportfraud.ftc.gov<\/a> or <a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ic3.gov\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ic3.gov<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>United Kingdom:<\/strong> <a>www.actionfraud.police.uk<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Canada:<\/strong> <a>www.cyber.gc.ca<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Australia:<\/strong> <a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.scamwatch.gov.au\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.scamwatch.gov.au<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also consider forwarding the scam email to <strong><a>reportphishing@apwg.org<\/a><\/strong>, an international anti-phishing organization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Bottom Line<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The \u201cI Have To Share Bad News With You\u201d email is a <strong>classic sextortion scam<\/strong> designed to exploit fear and shame. It\u2019s emotionally manipulative, technologically unsophisticated, but psychologically effective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don\u2019t fall for it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you receive the email, don\u2019t panic, don\u2019t pay, and don\u2019t respond. Just take simple steps to secure your information, report the incident, and educate others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Cybercriminals rely on secrecy and silence to thrive. The best defense is knowledge, preparation, and speaking up.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>It starts with a jarring subject line \u2014 \u201cI have to share bad news with you.\u201d Your heart skips a beat. As you read, panic sets in. The email claims your device has been hacked, &#8230; <\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more-container\"><a title=\"\u201cI Have To Share Bad News With You\u201d Email Scam Explained\" class=\"read-more button\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/i-have-to-share-bad-news-with-you-email-scam\/#more-335858\" aria-label=\"Read more about \u201cI Have To Share Bad News With You\u201d Email Scam Explained\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":50,"featured_media":335859,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[49],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-335858","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-scam-reports","masonry-post","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50","resize-featured-image"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/335858","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/50"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=335858"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/335858\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/335859"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=335858"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=335858"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=335858"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}