Your browser has been blocked: what it is and how to remove it
'Your Browser Has Been Blocked' is a fake law enforcement scam demanding payment for non-existent crimes. Real agencies never lock browsers; force-close and scan for adware.
Facts checked October 5, 2026. Removal steps tested on Windows 11 (26H2) and checked against Microsoft's and the browser makers' current documentation. Sections marked as our earlier report are the original text: they describe the threat as it was then and have not been reviewed since. The 2026 status, the removal steps and the questions are current.
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Your browser has been blocked: summary
| Detection names | No Microsoft detection name is known |
|---|---|
| Distribution | Not recorded in the old report |
| Damage | Not recorded in the old report |
| Name | Your browser has been blocked |
| Type | Unwanted browser or VPN app |
| Symptoms | An unknown process in Task Manager |
| Removal | Scan the PC with security software to find and remove the malware and anything installed with it. Fortect scans Windows for malware and repairs the system files and settings it damaged. Remove it nowTo use the full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Fortect. The scan is free. |
Show 4 more facts
| Files and processes | adware_pop.exe |
|---|---|
| Evidence | 6 write-ups by security sites; details still limited |
| First seen | 15 March 2018 |
| Facts checked | 5 October 2026 |
Is Your browser has been blocked safe? Why it is flagged
What readers reported about Your browser has been blocked
How to get rid of "Your browser has been blocked" redirect problem?. How to get rid of "Your browser has been blocked" redirect problem? I am sure it's fake, but this alert bothers me and I want to stop it.
Can't stop InterWeather ads!. Lately, I've been struggling to disable appearing pop-ups. Though I blocked the pop-ups in the browser settings, the ads still emerge. Can you help me to get rid of them? Your help is highly appreciated.
From the comments under our earlier guide; names and contact details removed.
From our report of Mar 2018 · not reviewed since
Browser Blocked Based On Your Security Preferences - a new version of the scam that asks to call fake tech support
Security researchers from NoVirus.uk report about a scam that also reports about a blocked web browser.
However, this variant does not directly demand to pay several hundreds of dollars to avoid spending years in prison. Authors of the "Browser Blocked Based On Your Security Preferences" scam asks to call "System Administrator."
So-called "Browser Blocked Based On Your Security Preferences" virus is an example of technical support scam. It operates as an adware program which can sneak into the system bundled with freeware or shareware. Once inside, it might alter any web browsers settings and start browser redirect to a scam website that displays the following message:
Additionally, the website displays a pop-up asking to download an unknown file. However, some compromised sites do not even need users to click "Allow" button (not recommended). Malicious files are downloaded automatically while you stay on this site.
Hence, if you end up on Browser Blocked Based On Your Security Preferences scam website, you should close or force-quit the browser immediately. Instead of calling a fake system administrator, obtain a reputable anti-malware software and get rid of malicious components that might reside on the system.
From our report of Mar 2018 · not reviewed since
The ways how crooks promote scam websites
Redirects to scam websites that display "Your browser has been blocked up" alerts can be triggered by:
Therefore, in order to avoid being scammed, you should avoid visiting high-risk websites and watch out for adware programs. These applications are usually brought on the computer in the freeware or shareware bundles.
For this reason, you have to be attentive when installing free programs. First of all, choose reliable download sources and avoid torrents or similar P2P networks.
Secondly, read EULA and Privacy Policy. Thirdly, opt for Advanced/Custom installation mode instead of Quick/Recommended. Finally, monitor the process and opt out pre-selected "additional downloads."
- high-risk websites, such as illegal video streaming, adult-themed, gaming, gambling, etc.;
- adware programs.
From our report of Mar 2018 · not reviewed since
More from our earlier report on Your browser has been blocked
- Windows, Mac OS X, Android
- Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, etc.
- Browser redirects to scam website, inability to close the browser or its tab, unknown processes running in the Task Manager.
- Compromised websites that run malicious JavaScript code, adware programs
- To remove "Your browser has been blocked", install and run a full system scan.
- ALL PC DATA WILL BE DETAINED AND CRIMINAL PROCEDURES WILL BE INITIATED AGAINST YOU IF THE FINE IS NOT PAID.
- YOUR BROWSER HAS BEEN BLOCKED UP FOR SAFETY REASONS.
- ALL PC DATA WILL BE DETAINED.
- Your browser has been blocked based on your security preferences We have detected a possible virus adware_pop.exe on your PC.
- Your banking details as well as personal details are not safe anymore.
- You are at immediate risk for personal identity theft.
- Call your certified administrator at 1 (888) 427-3330 to remove this virus.
- Automatically report details of possible security incidents to system administrator, Privacy policy Call System administrator: 1 (888) 427-3330
How Your browser has been blocked got installed
From our report of Mar 2018 · outdated details corrected in October 2026
Your browser has been blocked is a scam message that might show up in Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Safari, and any other browser.
This fake alert is typically delivered by a compromised website or potentially unwanted program (PUP) which was silently installed on Mac or Windows computer. Some versions of the scam target Android devices too.
"Your browser has been blocked" scam website includes malicious JavaScript code which not only delivers fake security alter, but might also prevent from closing the browser or its tab. This functionality might scare less experienced computer users and convince them that they received a legit notification.
Your browser has been blocked scam is typically used for promoting FBI virus and its variations. Therefore, you might also receive messages claiming that "All activities on this computer have been recorded" or "All your files are encrypted" for these reasons:
Your browser has been blocked message is created to look like genuine law violation notification which is supposedly delivered by authorities, such as FBI, EUROPOL, RCMP, Gendarmerie Nationale, etc. that are known worldwide. However, these organizations never blackmail people by locking web browsers and sending threatening messages like:
Authors of the Your browser has been blocked virus urge to pay $300, 200 GBP, or 200 Euro fine using Ukash, PaySafeCard or GreenDot MoneyPak in order to get the access to your web browser. However, it's a clear terror that is used against inexperienced computer users who are afraid of going to prison.
The success of the "Your browser has been blocked" virus hides in malicious website's operation. As we have mentioned in the beginning, some compromised sites are designed to prevent users from closing it. Additionally, the scam sites usually include "Leave this page" button. However, it may be inactive or close scam website temporarily.
To remove Your browser has been blocked malware from the browser for good, you have to check the system for adware or other potentially unwanted applications that might force the browser to display this alert. The best way to achieve this goal is to scan the system with or another anti-malware.
Your browser has been blocked scam removal might also be performed manually. However, it's a quite challenging task, but if you are willing to take it, follow the removal guide at the end of the article.
- viewing or distributing prohibited pornographic content,
- neglectful use of PCs,
- violation of copyright and related rights,
- etc.
Check your PC and browser
- File:
adware_pop.exe
How to uninstall Your browser has been blocked
How to remove Your browser has been blocked
Uninstall it, then set your own browser and search engine back, because it changes both.
Step 1: Uninstall programs you did not mean to install
Your browser has been blocked rarely comes alone: it is usually installed by, or together with, a free program. In Windows 11 open Settings > Apps > Installed apps, in Windows 10 Settings > Apps > Apps & features, and sort by install date.
Uninstall every entry from the day the trouble began that you did not install on purpose, for example a download manager, a converter or a browser you never chose.
Keep drivers and entries from Microsoft, Intel, AMD, NVIDIA or your PC's maker unless you are sure.
Full procedure with screenshots: Uninstall a program or app in Windows On uGetFix
Step 2: Remove it from startup
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager and select Startup apps (Windows 11) or the Startup tab (Windows 10). Disable entries you do not recognise, especially ones with no publisher or with a name that copies a Windows component.
Right-click an entry and choose Open file location to see where it runs from: programs in
%AppData%or%Temp%deserve a closer look. Some entries are not listed there but in the registry Run keys, which the procedure below shows how to check.Full procedure with screenshots: Stop apps from opening at startup On uGetFix
Step 3: Delete the folders left behind
Uninstalling often leaves the program's folders, and some threats reinstall themselves from them.
Press Windows + R, type
%LocalAppData%and press Enter, then do the same for%AppData%and %ProgramData%, and look for folders named after Your browser has been blocked, its publisher or created on the day the problem started.Delete those folders, and check
C:\Program FilesandC:\Program Files (x86)too.If Windows says a file is in use, end it in Task Manager or delete the folder after a restart in Safe Mode. The folders are the same in Windows 11 and Windows 10.
Full procedure with screenshots: Remove what malware leaves behind in Windows
Step 4: Scan the PC, then run the offline scan
A scan finds the parts of Your browser has been blocked that the manual steps cannot see. In Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Scan options, start a Full scan and quarantine what it reports.
Follow it with Microsoft Defender Antivirus (offline scan) > Scan now, which restarts the PC and checks the disk while Windows and the malware are not running.
It takes about 15 minutes and works the same in Windows 11 and Windows 10. If either scan finds something, run the full scan again after removal until it comes back clean.
Windows 11: Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Scan options. Full procedure with screenshots: Run a Microsoft Defender Offline scan
Instructions for each browser and system
The detailed steps for every browser and system this guide covers. Open the one you use.
Uninstall from Windows
Follow the steps below to get rid of the Your browser has been blocked malware from Windows machine. Additionally, uninstall suspicious extensions from the affected web browsers and reset each of them.
Uninstall from Windows 10/8:
- Type Control Panel into the Windows search box and open the result.
- Under Programs, select Uninstall a program.
Uninstall from Windows 7/XP:
- Click on Windows Start > Control Panel (Windows XP users should click on Add/Remove Programs).
- In Control Panel, select Programs > Uninstall a program.
Remove the unwanted program:
- In the Programs and Features window, look for any recently installed suspicious entries, select them, and click Uninstall.
- If User Account Control appears, click Yes to confirm, then complete the removal.
Remove from Google Chrome
Delete malicious extensions from Google Chrome:
- Open Google Chrome, click on the Menu (three vertical dots at the top-right corner) and select More tools > Extensions.
- In the newly opened window, you will see all the installed extensions. Uninstall all suspicious extensions related to the unwanted program by clicking Remove.
Clear cache and web data from Chrome:
- Click on Menu and pick Settings.
- Under Privacy and security, select Clear browsing data.
- Select Browsing history, Cookies and other site data, as well as Cached images and files.
- Click Clear data.
Change your homepage:
- Click menu and choose Settings.
- Look for a suspicious site in the On startup section.
- Click on Open a specific or set of pages and click on three dots to find the Remove option.
Reset Google Chrome:
If the previous methods did not help you, reset Google Chrome to eliminate all the unwanted components:
- Click on Menu and select Settings.
- In the Settings, scroll down and click Advanced.
- Scroll down and locate Reset and clean up section.
- Now click Restore settings to their original defaults.
- Confirm with Reset settings.
Remove from Microsoft Edge
Delete unwanted extensions from MS Edge:
- Select Menu (three horizontal dots at the top-right of the browser window) and pick Extensions.
- From the list, pick the extension and click on the Gear icon.
- Click Remove.
Clear cookies and other browser data:
- Click on the Menu (three horizontal dots at the top-right of the browser window) and select Settings > Privacy, search, and services..
- Under Clear browsing data, pick Choose what to clear.
- Select Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files. (apart from passwords, although you might want to include Media licenses as well, if applicable) and click on Clear.
Restore new tab and homepage settings:
- Click the menu icon and choose Settings.
- Then find On startup section.
- Click Remove next to any suspicious startup page.
Reset MS Edge if the above steps did not work:
- Press on Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Click on More details arrow at the bottom of the window.
- Select Details tab.
- Now scroll down and locate every entry with Microsoft Edge name in it. Right-click on each of them and select End Task to stop MS Edge from running.
Delete extensions from MS Edge (Chromium):
- Open Edge and click select Settings > Extensions.
- Delete unwanted extensions by clicking Remove.
Clear cache and site data:
- Click on Menu and go to Settings.
- Select Privacy, search and services.
- Under Clear browsing data, pick Choose what to clear.
- Under Time range, pick All time.
- Select Clear now.
Reset Chromium-based MS Edge:
- Click on Menu and select Settings.
- On the left side, pick Reset settings.
- Select Restore settings to their default values.
- Confirm with Reset.
- This will disable extensions and reset startup pages but will not delete bookmarks, saved passwords, or browsing history.
Remove from Mozilla Firefox (FF)
Remove dangerous extensions:
- Open Mozilla Firefox browser and click on the Menu (three horizontal lines at the top-right of the window).
- Select Add-ons.
- In here, select the unwanted extension and click Remove.
Reset the homepage:
- Click three horizontal lines at the top right corner to open the menu.
- Choose Settings.
- Under Home, set your preferred homepage and new tab settings.
Clear cookies and site data:
- Click Menu and pick Settings.
- Go to Privacy & Security section.
- Scroll down to locate Cookies and Site Data.
- Click on Clear Data...
- Select Cookies and Site Data and Temporary cached files and pages, then click Clear.
Reset Mozilla Firefox
If clearing the browser as explained above did not help, reset Mozilla Firefox:
- Open Mozilla Firefox browser and click the Menu.
- Go to Help and then choose Troubleshooting Information.
- Under Give Firefox a tune up section, click on Refresh Firefox...
- Once the pop-up shows up, confirm the action by pressing on Refresh Firefox.
Delete from Safari
Remove dangerous extensions:
- Open Safari, click Safari in the menu at the top-left of the screen, and select Preferences.
- Go to the Extensions tab, look for any suspicious entries, and click Uninstall to remove them.
Clear history and website data:
- Click Safari in the menu and pick Clear History.
- Set Clear to all history and confirm with Clear History.
Reset Safari:
- Click Safari in the menu and select Preferences > Advanced.
- Enable Show Develop menu in menu bar.
- From the menu bar, click Develop and select Empty Caches.
Delete from macOS
To eliminate Your browser has been blocked up virus from Mac OS X, you have to uninstall questionable applications and reset affected web browser. Follow the guide below:
Remove the unwanted application:
- From the menu bar, select Go > Applications.
- In the Applications folder, look for any suspicious entries, then drag them to Trash (or right-click and pick Move to Trash).
Delete leftover files and folders:
- Select Go > Go to Folder.
- Enter /Library/Application Support and remove any suspicious folders related to the unwanted program.
- Repeat the same check in the /Library/LaunchAgents and /Library/LaunchDaemons folders, deleting any suspicious entries.
- Finally, empty the Trash to permanently remove the leftovers.
Reset Internet Explorer
Remove dangerous add-ons:
- Open Internet Explorer, click on the Gear icon (IE menu) on the top-right corner of the browser
- Pick Manage Add-ons.
- You will see a Manage Add-ons window. Here, look for suspicious plugins. Click on these entries and select Disable.
Change your homepage if it was altered:
- Open IE and click on the Gear icon.
- Select Internet Options.
- In the General tab, delete the Home page address and replace it by your preferred one (for example, Google.com).
- Click Apply and then select OK.
Delete temporary files:
- Press on the Gear icon and select Internet Options.
- Under Browsing history, click Delete...
- Select relevant fields and press Delete.
Reset Internet Explorer:
- Click on Gear icon > Internet options and select Advanced tab.
- Select Reset.
- In the new window, check Delete personal settings and select Reset.
Stream videos without limitations, no matter where you are
There are multiple parties that could find out almost anything about you by checking your online activity.
While this is highly unlikely, advertisers and tech companies are constantly tracking you online. The first step to privacy should be a secure browser that focuses on tracker reduction to a minimum.
Even if you employ a secure browser, you will not be able to access websites that are restricted due to local government laws or other reasons. In other words, you may not be able to stream Disney+ or US-based Netflix in some countries. To bypass these restrictions, you can employ a powerful VPN, which provides dedicated servers for torrenting and streaming, not slowing you down in the process.
Data backups are important - recover your lost files
Ransomware is one of the biggest threats to personal data.
Once it is executed on a machine, it launches a sophisticated encryption algorithm that locks all your files, although it does not destroy them. The most common misconception is that anti-malware software can return files to their previous states. This is not true, however, and data remains locked after the malicious payload is deleted.
While regular data backups are the only secure method to recover your files after a ransomware attack, tools such as can also be effective and restore at least some of your lost data.
From our report of Mar 2018 · outdated details corrected in October 2026
Instructions on how to get rid of Your browser has been blocked scam
To remove Your browser has been blocked malware from bombarding your browser, you have to look up for adware or other malware installed on your computer.
You can investigate the system manually by following adware removal guide delivered at the end of the article. However, there's a quicker method - scanning the system with anti-malware software, for instance, .
However, if you cannot start Your browser has been blocked virus removal due to the locked browser, you have to terminate web browser's processes by following these steps:
Then, you can either install security software or look up for this cyber threat without it. However, if browser redirects to scam website come back, you should consider reinstalling the affected web browser.
- Press ctrl+alt+del on your keyboard and select Task Manager.
- When Windows Task Manager window shows up, select Processes tab and end the process of your affected web browser (If the virus is blocking your Microsoft Edge, you should end msedge.exe, Google Chrome - chrome.exe, Safari - Safari.exe, Mozilla Firefox - firefox.exe).
From our report of Mar 2018 · not reviewed since
Delete "Your browser has been blocked" virus from Android OS
Some versions of Your browser has been blocked up scam targets smartphones and tablets running on Android OS.
However, there are still two elimination methods - manual and automatic. If you do not want to use anti-malware software, follow these steps:
If your browser has been blocked virus infected your Android OS, use these steps:
1. Reboot your Android device into Safe Mode:
If this failed to work for you, just turn off your device and then turn it on. Once it becomes active, try pressing and holding Menu, Volume Down, Volume Up or Volume Down and Volume Up together to see Safe Mode.
2. Uninstall malicious app (Police virus may hide under BaDoink, Video Player, Network Driver System, Video Render, ScarePakage and other suspicious names):
If this failed, enter a random, 15 digit length, code of imaginary MoneyPak xpress Packed voucher that is asked by Your browser has been blocked virus or follow these steps:
- Find the power button and press it for a couple of seconds until you see a menu. Tap the Power off.
- Once you see a dialog window that offers you to reboot your Android to Safe Mode, select this option and OK.
- When in Safe Mode, go to Settings. Once there, click on Apps or Application manager (this may differ depending on your device).
- Here, look for previously mentioned malicious app(s) and uninstall all of them.
- Go to Settings > Security. Here, select Device administrators.
- Here, look for previously mentioned malicious app(s) and uncheck it
- In order to finish the removal of Your browser has been blocked virus, select Deactivate and OK.
Questions about Your browser has been blocked
Is 'Your Browser Has Been Blocked' a real law enforcement alert?
No. 'Your Browser Has Been Blocked' is a fake alert created by criminals to impersonate law enforcement, not a genuine notification from FBI, EUROPOL, RCMP, or other authorities. Real law enforcement agencies never lock browsers, send threatening popups, or demand payment through cryptocurrency or gift cards.
The scam appears professional with logos, error codes (like Error #268D3 which doesn't exist), and official-sounding language claiming illegal activity or copyright violation. In reality, governments prosecute crimes through courts and legal processes, never through browser popups. The scam exploits fear of legal consequences to pressure victims into immediate payment.
What illegal activities does the scam claim?
The fake alert typically accuses you of viewing illegal content, violating copyright laws, or distributing prohibited material. It threatens arrest, prison time, and device seizure unless you immediately pay a fine ($200-$300 or equivalent in euros or pounds) using payment methods like Ukash, PaySafeCard, or GreenDot MoneyPak.
The vague accusations allow the scam to target diverse victims; few people investigate closely enough to realize law enforcement never operates this way. More recent variants claim device infection or hacking rather than legal violations, using different psychological pressure while maintaining identical payment demands. All accusations are fabricated.
Why can't I close the browser?
Some malicious websites include JavaScript code that prevents closing browser windows or tabs. When you click the X button or try using keyboard shortcuts, nothing happens. The website may include fake 'Leave this page' buttons that either don't function or temporarily close the scam then reopen it.
This artificial entrapment increases fear and urgency, making victims more likely to comply with payment demands. However, you can always force-close the browser through Task Manager (Windows:
- Ctrl-Alt-Delete
- then end browser process)
- Activity Monitor (Mac)
Force-closing always works regardless of malicious JavaScript preventing normal closure.
What are the payment methods they request?
Scammers request payment through untraceable methods like Ukash, PaySafeCard, GreenDot MoneyPak, or cryptocurrency (Bitcoin, Monero). These methods are essentially irreversible; once money is transferred, retrieval is nearly impossible. Traditional payment methods (credit cards, PayPal, bank transfers) would create traceable transaction records and chargeback opportunities, making them unsuitable for criminals.
The demand for untraceable payments is itself evidence of criminal intent. Real government fines are collected through official channels with receipts and payment verification, never through anonymous gift card codes or cryptocurrency wallets.
How does this malware get on my computer?
The malicious website delivering the fake alert is the primary infection vector; visiting compromised sites automatically triggers the scam. Additionally, adware programs bundled with free software can hijack browsers to display this alert. Malvertising (malicious ads on legitimate sites) can redirect you to scam pages.
In some cases, email attachments or malicious links in spam messages trigger redirects to the scam. The browser doesn't require file downloads to display the alert; merely visiting the compromised website via browser is sufficient. However, if redirects occur repeatedly, adware is likely installed and requires anti-malware removal.
Is my computer actually infected?
The fake alert alone does not indicate actual infection; it is purely a website display designed to psychologically manipulate you. However, if you arrived at the scam through browser hijacking (unwanted redirects), adware is likely installed. Repeated redirects to scam sites after restarting your browser indicate serious infection.
Indicators of genuine malware beyond the fake alert include unexpected slowdowns, unfamiliar programs in your applications list, multiple background processes visible in Task Manager, and unusual network activity. Run a complete system scan with reputable anti-malware software to determine if actual infections exist beyond the fake popup.
What should I do if I see this alert?
First, do not pay any amount or provide personal information. Immediately force-close your browser using Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (Mac). Restart your computer completely.
Visit a legitimate website (your bank, email provider) to verify normal browsing works, confirming the alert was purely browser-based. If redirects to the scam page continue after restart, adware is installed; download anti-malware software from a different browser and run a complete system scan.
Reset your primary browser settings afterward to remove any modifications. Never visit the scam site again, and delete any suspicious programs from your applications list.
What if I accidentally paid them?
If you purchased gift card codes and provided them to scammers, the money is likely lost; these payment methods are essentially irreversible. Immediately contact your gift card issuer and the retailer to report the fraud, though recovery prospects are poor. If you provided credit card information, contact your card issuer immediately to report fraud and request card replacement.
Monitor your credit and bank accounts closely for unauthorized charges. If you revealed personal information, consider credit monitoring services and reviewing your credit report for identity theft indicators. Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov and to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) to aid law enforcement investigations.
Will Fortect remove Your browser has been blocked?
Fortect scans Windows for malware and unwanted programs and repairs the system files and settings they change, and its free scan shows what it finds on your PC before you decide anything.
For Your browser has been blocked, follow the plan above as well: the browser steps take back permissions and settings that no scanner treats as a threat, and uninstalling the program that brought it removes the source.
Run Microsoft Defender's full scan and, if anything was found, its offline scan as a second opinion. If the symptoms are gone after the plan and both scans are clean, there is nothing more to do.
Sources
- Wikipedia: Adware (read October 5, 2026)
- MakeUseOf: 4 Ways to Read and Understand an End User License Agreement (EULA) More Easily (read October 5, 2026)
- FTC: How to recognize, remove and avoid malware (read October 5, 2026)
- Microsoft Learn: Microsoft Defender Offline (read October 5, 2026)
- Microsoft Learn: How Microsoft names malware (read October 5, 2026)