In a significant move to enhance user security, Microsoft has introduced an AI-powered scareware blocker for its Edge browser, marking a new era in the fight against tech support scams. This feature, which began rolling out this week, utilizes local machine learning capabilities to identify and block both existing and emerging scam attempts.
The new security feature operates by leveraging a sophisticated machine learning model that runs directly on users’ Windows PCs. As explained by the Microsoft Edge team, “Scareware blocker uses a machine learning model that runs on the local computer,” employing computer vision technology to compare full-screen pages against thousands of known scam samples shared by the security community.
Tech support scams have long plagued internet users, with criminals exploiting browser features to display convincing but fraudulent warning messages. These scams typically involve fake error messages and warning screens that prompt users to call supposed technical support numbers, often leading to financial fraud or identity theft. Previously, scammers could manipulate legitimate warning messages in Microsoft Edge, creating a pressing need for more robust security measures.
How the Protection Works
When the system detects a potential scam, it automatically:
- Exits full-screen mode
- Stops audio playback
- Displays a warning with a thumbnail of the suspicious page
- Provides options to report the site
The reported sites are then added to Microsoft’s Defender SmartScreen service, creating a broader protection network for all Edge users.
Implementation and Availability
The scareware blocker is currently available in preview within the latest stable channel release of Edge. Users need to:
- Access Edge’s privacy settings
- Manually enable the scareware blocker
- Restart the browser to activate the feature
Additional Security Measures
Microsoft emphasizes that legitimate error messages never include phone numbers for technical support. The company recommends users maintain additional security measures, including:
- Keeping Microsoft Defender Antivirus updated
- Using content blockers
- Downloading software only from official sources
- Reporting suspicious sites through Edge’s Help and Feedback menu
This development represents a significant advancement in browser security, operating locally without sending data to cloud services, thus maintaining user privacy while providing enhanced protection against increasingly sophisticated scam attempts.
For users who may have already encountered scams, Microsoft recommends immediate action, including uninstalling any suspicious applications and monitoring for unusual account activity. The company maintains that all legitimate Microsoft support interactions must be initiated by the user, never through unsolicited communications.
