Q: Are Windows Defender warnings that pop up with a phone number legit?

A: Microsoft’s built-in security tool has improved over the years, and it still blocks plenty of everyday threats. But the latest news — along with a wave of scams abusing the Windows Defender name — shows why it’s no longer wise to rely on it alone.

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A recent report revealed that a ransomware group found a way to remotely disable Windows Defender using a trusted Windows driver. In other words, criminals figured out how to silently turn off the alarm system without triggering any alerts.

We’re seeing an increase in fake “Windows Defender” pop-ups designed to scare

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