Fake Virus Scam Tactics :

Fake virus alerts are usually generated by a Trojan -- a program that takes control of your computer -- after you open an email attachment, click on a pop-up advertisement or visit a particular website. (Adult sites are special favorites.)

Sometimes, the Trojan misguides us by creating "false positive" readings, making you think viruses and spy ware have infected your computer. In other cases, scam software actually embeds malicious code into your computer, particularly if you ask for a "free virus scan."

In other words, some peddlers of false anti-virus software actually design the viruses, spy ware and malware that their software is supposed to notice!

What to Look For Rogue Spyware

* Rogue anti-virus/spy ware programs frequently generate more "alerts" than the software made by sound companies.

* You may be bombarded with pop-ups, even when you're not online.

* High-pressure sales copy will try to induce you to buy RIGHT NOW!

* If you've been infected, your computer may radically slow down.

* Other signs of infection include: new desktop icons; new wallpaper, or having your default homepage redirected to another site.

Fake Anti Virus Prevention Tips

1. Keep your computer updated with the newest anti-virus and anti-spy ware software, and be sure to use a good quality firewall.

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

3. Do NOT click on any pop-up that promotes anti-virus or anti-spyware software, particularly a program promising to provide every feature known to mankind. (Also remember: the fakes often mimic well-known brands such as Grisoft AVG, Norton and McAfee.)

4. If a virus alert shows on your screen, do NOT touch it. Don't use your mouse to eliminate or scan for viruses, and DON'T use your mouse to close the window. Instead, hit Alt + Ctrl + Del to view a list of programs presently running. Delete the "rogue" from the list of running programs, and call your computer maker's phone or online tech support service to learn if you can safely use your computer.

5. Do not download freeware or shareware unless you know it's from a trustworthy source.

6. Avoid questionable websites. Some sites may automatically download malicious software onto your computer.

7. Reset your existing security settings to a higher level.

8. Although fake software may closely look like the real thing, it's rarely an exact match. Look for doubtful differences.

9. If your computer is infected by rogue software, stop work and don't keep using the computer. This may further damage your machine and provide identity thieves with more information about you.

10. Use of fake anti-virus, anti-spy ware software is a fast-growing scam, in particular as more people become aware of the risks of spy ware, adware and malware. By following the above tips, however, you'll better guard yourself from becoming the next victim of scammers, identity thieves and hackers.

Computer Repair Technicians

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