Rogue Antivirus Scammers Getting Rich
by Frank Jovine on 12/14/2009 in Scams & Hoaxes, Security
Rogue Antivirus programs are becoming more frequent. I have written many articles about fake antivirus programs, but the worst of the bunch was “Security Tool Virus“. Security Tool installed viruses and created many system issues, and it was the toughest to remove. The scammers have made over $150M according to the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation.
These fake or rogue programs can appear in Ads, websites and in emails. The scam tries to fool users into thinking they have an infection. After the user performs a scan, the program shows exaggerated reports and prompts the user to remove them, but in order to remove the fake threats, the user will need to purchase a full license.
The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center issued a warning over this fake antivirus software Friday, saying that Web surfers should be wary of sudden pop-up windows that report security problems on their computers.
This is always a bad idea. At best, the software is subpar. At worst, it “could result in viruses, Trojans and/or keyloggers being installed on the user’s computer,” the IC3 said in its warning. The IC3 is run in partnership with the National White Collar Crime Center.
The IC3 says that users who see these unexpected antivirus pop-up warnings should shut down their browsers or their computers immediately and then run an antivirus scan to see what’s going on.
Victims who have been hit with rogue AV can file an IC3 complaint here.
BadEvan
Dec 14th, 2009
$150 Million?!?! I’m in the wrong line of work… oh wait. I have a conscience.
Frank J
Dec 14th, 2009
Evan,
LOL – Yes, we are in the wrong line of work.
Walter
Dec 15th, 2009
This is an important information you have share. Being ignorant about these matters, I can easily fall into its trap. Thanks for this alert.
Frank J
Dec 15th, 2009
Walter,
I am happy to share information that will make people aware of the ugly side of the internet.
the boss
Dec 15th, 2009
your a bunch of fools if you click them ads , dont ever click on a ad
stupid people
Startup Speed Boost
Dec 18th, 2009
You don’t even necessarily have to click on an “ad” or a download link. Drive-by-downloads can get you just by visiting a URL.
Not only that, but hijacked trusted sites can lead to infected downloads. You don’t have to be stupid to get infected. (but it helps…)
Webbhotell
Dec 19th, 2009
I never click or believe on those warning pop-ups. I would know it’s a big scam coz I’m not using Windows. But really I didn’t know that if you get a pop up like this from a website you should scan your computer immediately. I was under the impression that if you didn’t click OK or download it, it won’t do any harm.
sue
Dec 20th, 2009
well i’m no fool but the security tool virus has taken over and i’m at my wits end trying to delete it. help….
Frank J
Dec 20th, 2009
Sue,
The instructions I wrote work as many have stated. Try following the instructions and if need more help email me.
Deja...I hate Secr. Tool
Dec 21st, 2009
Well I was on Facebook when I contracted the Secruity Tool virus…. I need help…I cant figure out what you mean with your instructions Frank…Please help me:) Thanks