Wednesday, August 29, 2012

How To Guard Your Computer From Fake Antivirus Programs

By John Moren


Malicious software, or malware, is a serious threat to web browsers. Fake antivirus software has over half a million variations that lure users to infected websites using social engineering. Blackhat search engine optimizers are used to promote the bogus software. The malware will infect your computer and destroy all your directories, programs, and files. It is important to know how to identify the malware and what to do to protect your system.

When the phony antivirus software is downloaded to your system, it will give you a warning that your computer has been infected by a number of threats. You will then be urged to download or buy software that will get rid of the virus, but in actuality, it does not exist. Until you buy the false program, you will keep getting the annoying pop up warnings.

You need to know how it gets distributed and how it affects your system once infected. It is important to understand the risks of falling victim to malware. Learning how to keep this type of threat from gaining access to your network and infecting your users is extremely important. The number one risk is that your identifiable data is obtained and exploited by the associate networks publishing the malware.

Users must understand that they have been deceived into buying software that claims to rid their computer of malware. In reality, the programs being sold are actually bringing the virus to your system. This malicious software is disguised as a security program that is a very serious threat.

Another technique that is used for infecting computers is cold calling. This scam involves people calling you and informing you they are employed by a reputable software business. They inform you that your system has been infected. After several questions they attempt to sell you fraudulent antivirus software.

The fake security program uses social engineering to get around your computers security system. Additionally, it will get around your browser software and install onto you system. A fake warning appears on your screen indicating that your system is infected by several threats. You will then be urged to purchase software that will clean the virus off your computer.

The warning display does not close unless the user clicks the buy or download button. When the button is simply clicked, your computer will be infected. These fake antivirus programs are called Trojan horses. A Trojan may disguise itself as a number of different things that include offers for free malware scanning software. There are other rogue software downloads that will attach to the users contact list and send the virus out to automatically install.

One very successful way to keep your computer protected from the fake antivirus programs is to know what is out there. Pay attention to your email and delete anything that looks suspicious even if it is from someone you know and trust. If you have a window pop up warning you that your computer has been infected, immediately shut down your computer. Take the time to research the various threats that are currently making the rounds and find out what you can do to keep your system safe.




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