Search Support

Avoid support scams. We will never ask you to call or text a phone number or share personal information. Please report suspicious activity using the “Report Abuse” option.

Learn More

Frequent "potential security issue" or "potential security risk" error messages when trying to access various websites

more options

When I try to access several different websites, I often get those error messages or ones like it - not always, but most of the time. Sometimes restarting Firefox will cure the problem briefly but not always. If Outlook 2013 is open when I do this on Firefox, Outlook freezes, but the Firefox problem can arise when Outlook is closed.

When I try to access several different websites, I often get those error messages or ones like it - not always, but most of the time. Sometimes restarting Firefox will cure the problem briefly but not always. If Outlook 2013 is open when I do this on Firefox, Outlook freezes, but the Firefox problem can arise when Outlook is closed.

All Replies (7)

more options
more options

I use Avira antivirus, which is not on the list of problematic ones.

more options

As a test, disable it. If the problem is gone, contact their support.

more options

I use the same Firefox profile and the same Outlook profile on another Windows 10 computer, with Avira for antivirus, and do not have any problem with security risk, etc. blockage of websites or Outlook freezing. The only difference is Outlook 2013 on the problematic computer vs. Outlook 2016 on the trouble-free one. This suggests that Firefox may not be the source of the problem.

more options

Hi MFL100, does the error page have the "Advanced" button to open a panel with more technical information about the problem? That should have a code (WORDS_IN_ALL_CAPS) and the following article has information about various of the common ones (possibly FredMcD mentioned this one already, but just in case):

How to troubleshoot security error codes on secure websites

Do you notice any configuration differences in Firefox when you start it normally using your shortcut versus opening a link from Outlook? For example, does the link open in a separate window without your customizations?

more options

Thanks. I had seen the article and opened some of the Advanced pages.

I did get a blocked when I tried to open Firefox from a link FredMcD emailed to me and I received on my unhappy computer. I forget the error message that popped up, but it may have said something about my configuration not allowing it.

more options

If the problem comes back, check for an Advanced button on the error page.