Computer Security

Recently a colleague was conducting cyber research, when suddenly popped up a yellow triangle appeared on his screen, warning that his computer had been infected by dangerous spy ware. The alert looked real. He thought it was normal routine message issued by his security software maker. Still he was skeptical. Thus, not bothering anymore using his mouse he closed the alert message by pressing “X” in the window’s upper right corner.

And believe it or not that was his first and last mistake.

Pop -up-ads began flooding all through his system everywhere, his screen froze, and he was not able to access any of programs even after rebooting. Basically ,his computer was disabled and he spent hours on the phone with technical support to correct the problems.

Welcome to world of fake antivrius…….

Despite what happened to our friend seems unending story, now-a- days in cyber age it’s common to encounter hackers who simply want to harm your computer system with fake antivirus programs.

Often in most cases scammers play the tactics of scaring users by making them buy “rogue” security software. This motive simply targets consumers by making them think that their computer is infected.
Rogue means software of unknown or questionable origin or doubtful value or mischievous nature.

Rogue anti-virus/spy ware programs often generate more “alerts” than the software made by reputable companies. Sometimes system is bombarded with pop-ups, even when you’re not online. High-pressure sales copy will try to convince you to buy RIGHT NOW! Computer system slows down if infected. Other signs of infection includes: new desktop icons; new wallpaper, or having your default homepage redirected to another site.

In fact, fake virus Alerts always tries to entertain brand name products resulting existing consumers to think and act. For example: “Your Computer Has Been Infected!” That’s what some pop-up alerts will say, hoping you’ll download fake anti-virus software.

According to new research study reveal by Panda Laboratory states tremendous increased in use of malware in making antivirus products which is defrauding users on daily basis.

Fake virus alerts are usually generated by a Trojan –

These applications are classified as ad ware by Panda Labs, pass themselves off as antivirus utilities. They often appear on the Internet as free downloads. Alternatively, they can be concealed in other files downloaded by users,including music or video files.

Once on system, they tell the user (who is often unaware that the application is on their system) that a virus has been detected. They then invite them to buy the full version of the antivirus to disinfect the computer .If users don’t purchase the antivirus, it continues displaying non-existent infections and pop-ups inviting users to purchase the fake security software - which in reality does not detect or delete anything. If they buy it, they have paid for a useless pro gramme. This is how cyber-criminals reach their main objective: to profit financially through malware.

In other cases theses false virus alerts even tries to implant code into your computer especially if you request ” free virus scan”

Apart from preventing users from checking whether they are genuinely infected or not ,theses fake antivirus program usually tries to block the web pages of real on line antivirues ,security companies etc.

According to Security Experts ,New rogue security applications have also been discovered in recent days by Sunbelt Software. Among the names being used by the applications are Windows AntiVirus, Windows AntiVirus 2008, Anti Virus Lab 2009 and Antispyware Pro XP.

10 Tips to help you avoid fake anti-virus software :
Use of fake anti-virus, anti-spyware software is a fast-growing scam, especially as more people become aware of the dangers of spyware,adware and malware.

By following the tips below, however, you’ll better protect your computer system from becoming the next victim of scammers, identity thieves and hackers.

1. Use of Firefox rather than internet Explorer can be good choice.
2. Computer system should be always updated with latest antivirus and antisyware software.
3. Always keep your programs up to date and use good firewall.
4. Avoid opening an email attachment from unknown source.
5. Avoid clicking any pop up menu that advertises antivirus or antispyware software,especially program promising to provide feature (fakes) known to mankind.
6. Do not download free ware and shareware unless it is from reputable and safe source.
7. Avoid Questionable websites.
8. Always Reset your computer system with settings to higher level.
9. Always be careful while installing any software.
10. Check out the list of rogue/fake antivirus and antisyware products.