My HP laptop is suddenly locked;

[Grasswire2]

Verbal message saying it has been locked up because my IP was used without my knowledge on a site that includes identify theft virus.
(I'm on my alternate device currently);
Msg says do not attempt to shut down or restart computer, but call support immediately.

Now what?
what should I do?

Right now I have to leave for a medical appointment.
Will check back on my return.

Eek.

[ItsjustMe]

1. Press and hold the power button.

To restart the computer.

Download adwcleaner and run it. The app will clean your system of the adware.

Then install adguard on all your browsers.

Check out this channel to learn how they do these scams.

[50 Shades Of Blue]

2. Scam

This is a scam. These are old methods to exploit the unsuspecting customers and sensitive information might be leaked including your computer and mail ID and other information being used for wrong purposes.

You should report this Scam to Microsoft @
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/reportascam/

Another useful info on these
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/safety/online-p...

As an additional precaution -

1. Use Defender / ESET Scan on your computer
a. Open Windows Defender > Virus & threat protection menu > Advanced Scan > Full Scan
b. Download ESET / Sysrescue and follow the instructions on the link - https://www.eset.com/us/download/tools-and-util...

2. Run Malware scan
Malware Bytes - https://www.malwarebytes.com/

https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/all/computer-lock-message-from-microsoft-chatbot/699831e7-5235-4b98-962b-a200ee5a715a

[Oopsie Daisy]

3. Sounds like a scam to me.

[honest.abe]

4. It's a scam. Don't call. Reboot safe mode and install virus scanner and run it.

[SWBTATTReg]

5. I'd call your internet service provider (ISP) first. And my ? is how did they get your IP address?

Sounds like a plishing attempt.

[ItsjustMe]

6. They don't have his ip address

His/her browser has been hijacked. That's why they don't want him to restart the computer. Restarting the computer will solve the Issue.

[SWBTATTReg]

8. Makes sense. Thanks. That's why I get into a routine of shutting down my system occasionally, just to clear

out any potential issues. A lot of people don't shut their systems down that much, I try to do so (reboot) so often, just to clear out stuff. And of course, my ISP (charter) does a fair job of stomping out potential issues/viruses/etc.

[JohnSJ]

7. Shut it down, it's a scam. You can also bring up task manager and kill the job

relaying the message

Do NOT call that number

After shutting down you should be able to restart your computer

Remember the last site you were on because that site had the script that probably had the scam alert in a tight loop