Security Alert!

Ads For Fake Anti-Virus And Anti-Spyware Programs Are Multiplying

Not long ago one of our clients was browsing the web when a warning popped up on his computer screen, alerting him that his PC had been infected with a virus. Although the alert looked real, he was skeptical and closed the alert by clicking on the “X” in the upper right hand corner of the notice.

Can you guess what happened next? His browser was hijacked, pop up ads started sprouting up everywhere, and he couldn’t get any of his programs to work even though he rebooted his machine. Although this is an extreme example, the number of fake anti-virus software scams has increased tenfold in the first quarter of this year. Court records reveal one instance of why this has become a hot new trend with hackers: One company (Innovative Marketing) took in more than $160 billion worldwide last year “selling” fake anti-virus programs.

Here’s How They Nail You:

Online scammers simply create and place fake ads under the name of well-known anti-virus corporations without their permission, and without the knowledge of the site selling the ads. But instead of installing a legitimate anti-virus program, it installs a virus that either instantly infects the PC or creates a warning that then sells the user a fake clean-up program.

How To Avoid Getting Tricked

1. Use Firefox as your browser rather than Internet Explorer.

2. Keep your computer updated with the latest anti-virus and anti- spyware software, and be sure to use a good firewall.

3. Never open an email attachment unless you are POSITIVE about the source.

4. Do NOT click on any pop-up that advertises anti-virus or anti- spyware software. If a virus alert appears on your screen, DON'T click on it, even to “close” it. Instead, hit control + alt + delete to bring up the Task Manager. From there, delete the "rogue" from the list of running programs, and call us immediately: 410-884- 0225

5. Do not download freeware or shareware unless you know it's from a reputable source. Many freeware and shareware programs come bundled with spyware, adware, or fake anti-virus programs