If you’re browsing the web on your iPhone using Google Chrome and suddenly see a warning that says something like “Your Norton subscription is out of date”, don’t panic. This is a scam redirect.
These fake alerts try to trick you into clicking links, installing unsafe apps, or paying for fake services. They usually appear when Chrome loads an ad or script from a shady network, even if you’re visiting a trusted site like CNN.
In this guide, I’ll explain why this happens on Chrome for iOS and how you can stop it.
Why Scam Redirects Happen
- Ad scripts: Some websites run third-party ads that can redirect you to fake security warnings.
- Pop-up abuse: These scam pages hijack your browser tab with fake alerts.
- No real infection: On iOS, these redirects don’t mean your iPhone has a virus. It’s just a browser trick.
The good news is that your device isn’t hacked. The issue is with Chrome’s browser cache, cookies, or ad scripts running in the background.
How to Fix Scam Redirects in Chrome on iOS
1. Clear Chrome’s Browsing Data
a. Open Chrome on your iPhone.
b. Tap the three dots (…) at the bottom.
c. Go to History > Clear Browsing Data.
d. Select Cookies, Site Data, and Cached Images and Files.
e. Tap Clear Browsing Data.
This removes any stored scripts or cookies that might trigger redirects.
2. Block Pop-Ups and Redirects
a. In Chrome, tap (…) > Settings.
b. Tap Content Settings > Block Pop-ups.
c. Make sure it’s turned on.
d. Go back and check Safe Browsing is enabled.
This stops most scam sites before they load.
3. Update Chrome
Scam redirects often take advantage of outdated browser versions.
a. Open the App Store.
b. Search for Google Chrome.
c. If you see an Update button, tap it.
4. Restart Your iPhone
After clearing data and updating, restart your device. This resets background processes and frees cached memory.
5. Use a Trusted Content Blocker
If the issue keeps happening, install a reputable ad blocker from the App Store (like 1Blocker or AdGuard). These block malicious ad scripts that trigger scam redirects.
6. Report the Site to Google
a. When redirected, tap (…) > Report an issue.
b. Send the page details to help Google block it in future updates.
What Not to Do
- Don’t tap Renew Subscription or any button on the scam page.
- Don’t install unknown apps suggested by the pop-up.
- Don’t enter credit card or personal details.
Summary
Scam redirects in Chrome on iOS are annoying but not dangerous if you know how to handle them. By clearing your browsing data, updating Chrome, blocking pop-ups, and using a trusted content blocker, you can stop these fake alerts from interrupting your browsing.
Do you have any questions? Drop them in the comments form below.
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