Malware Beware: Don't Get Faked Out with a Fake Antivirus

So, you’re innocently surfing the web, and the next thing you know, an obnoxious pop-up message appears saying you’re infected with a virus or malware. Panic sets in, and you obediently follow the directions to purchase a removal tool, and their orders to “click here” to remove the virus.

But what actually transpired?

You were tricked by a legitimate looking message into installing malware on your computer. Next thing you know, the computer isn’t working so well, and you may be out of some cash because you were pressured to pay for the software “solution”.

Don't let 'em hook you. Understanding how the bad guys bait for fish will keep you one step ahead.

 

This is an example of spam, posing as Legitimate antivirus or anti malware software:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

Which would actually look more like this if it were the real deal:

 

 

 

 

 

You win: Smart tips for avoiding fake antivirus

· Avoid suspicious looking web sites. Be a skeptic and don’t download and install software.

· Keep your computers up to date with Microsoft patches

· Update third party vendors too: Java, Flash, etc.

· Disable JavaScript in Adobe Reader. To do this, click Edit > Preferences > JavaScript, and uncheck "Enable Acrobat JavaScript"

· Have a good anti-spam solution in place to block unwanted solicitations

· Use a web-filtering firewall to block access to harmful sites

· Keep your antivirus software up-to-date; it's an absolute must

· Keep your antivirus software up-to-date; it's an absolute must

. Social Networking Sites: Many of these sites offer endorsements for fake AV. If you don’t know who is endorsing something, don’t believe them! Same goes for malware advertising. If it isn’t something you’re familiar with, don’t trust it or install it, regardless if its free of for a fee.

· Lastly, scan for malware using a trusted solution such as Malwarebytes or Spybot

 

Better yet, if the to-do list is to-long, call us and inquire about our Managed Services. iMedia clients are protected from all of these risks.