Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics, using fake pop-ups and deceptive warnings to trick employees into downloading malware, sharing login credentials, or paying for fake security fixes.
These scareware attacks are costing businesses millions in downtime, security breaches, and lost data. To fight back, Microsoft has introduced a new AI-powered scareware blocker in Edge, designed to detect and stop these threats before they cause damage.
But is that enough to fully protect your business?
How Scareware Attacks Work
Scareware tricks users into thinking their device has been compromised, often using full-screen pop-ups, loud alarms, and urgent warnings that demand immediate action.
Common scareware tactics include:
• Fake virus alerts claiming your system is infected
• Pop-ups impersonating Microsoft or Apple support
• Browser lockouts that demand payment to “fix” an issue
• Fake tech support scams that convince employees to give remote access
The danger? One wrong click can lead to a full-scale security breach.
Microsoft Edge’s AI-Powered Scareware Blocker
Microsoft Edge has taken an AI-driven approach to blocking scareware. The new feature:
✔️ Uses local machine learning to detect and stop full-screen scams
✔️ Automatically exits fake pop-ups before they can trick users
✔️ Blocks audio and visual scare tactics that create urgency
✔️ Reports fraudulent websites to Microsoft SmartScreen to prevent further attacks
While this tool adds another layer of defense, businesses in Austin, TX need more than a browser feature to stay protected.
Why Business Owners in Austin Need a Stronger Defense
• 40% of cybersecurity breaches start with an employee clicking a scam link.
• Small businesses make up 43% of cyberattack targets, yet many lack proper security measures.
• Scareware and phishing attacks have increased by 150% in the last two years.
Microsoft Edge’s scareware blocker is a great start, but it won’t protect email accounts, network data, or sensitive business applications.
How Managed IT Services Keep Your Business Secure
A comprehensive security strategy includes:
1. Proactive Threat Monitoring – Detect and block attacks before they reach your employees.
2. Employee Security Training – Teach your team how to recognize scams and avoid threats.
3. Advanced Email and Endpoint Protection – Protect company data across all devices and platforms.
4. Regular Security Audits – Identify vulnerabilities and strengthen your IT infrastructure.
At CTTS, we provide full-service Managed IT solutions in Austin, TX, helping businesses stay ahead of cyber threats, secure their data, and prevent costly breaches.
Take Action Before an Attack Hits Your Business
If you’re relying on basic security tools, you’re leaving your business vulnerable. Let’s build a security strategy that works.
📌 Schedule a Free Cybersecurity Assessment Today!
Your business is a target - let’s make sure it’s protected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Scareware Attacks
1. Is Microsoft Edge’s scareware blocker enough to keep my business secure?
While Edge’s scareware blocker helps prevent browser-based scams, it does not protect against email phishing, malware, ransomware, or data breaches. A Managed IT solution provides full-scale protection for your network and business data.
2. How can Managed IT Services help protect my business from scareware and phishing attacks?
Managed IT Services include proactive threat detection, security training, advanced email protection, and continuous monitoring to stop threats before they cause damage. These measures ensure that employees and data remain secure, even if attackers change tactics.
3. How do I know if my business is vulnerable to scareware or phishing scams?
If your business lacks security monitoring, relies on employees to spot scams, or does not have an incident response plan, you are at high risk. A cybersecurity assessment from CTTS in Austin, TX can identify weaknesses and provide solutions to keep your company safe.
If you found this article helpful, share it with a business owner who needs to know about these threats. Cybercriminals aren’t slowing down - let’s make sure your business is ready.
Contact CTTS today for IT support and managed services in Austin, TX. Let us handle your IT so you can focus on growing your business. Visit CTTSonline.com or call us at (512) 388-5559 to get started!