Fake virus alerts 27th March 2011

I am getting more and more call outs where rogue internet security software, has been installed onto computers. This is the same problem that I briefly mentioned in the last security warning, and it has since escalated and become harder to remove.

The software appears to be a valid and beneficial internet security warning, but it is in fact a Trojan that generates numerous false virus alerts to try and lure users into a fraudulent online transactions using their credit or debit card. It comes in various names and guises, and looks legitimate asking you to do a scan or to follow a link to update your security software. Below is an example of one particular version.

Typically, a computer user will get infected by visiting a rogue website or opening an infected email, but it can also be transmitted on a memory stick or CD. Commonly, a pop-up window will appear asking you to click on it to remove or do a scan for fictitious unwanted viruses or spyware. When you click on the pop-up, the rogue security software downloads to your computer.

In my experience, this Trojan can sometimes lie dormant for days, and so you could be on a perfectly safe website website when it first shows it's face. It appears to be a valid security program and will inform you that you have numerous infections, but you a this stage, you should consider why you have never seen this program on your computer before.

It is in fact the warning itself that is the infection, and your computer could have been perfectly clean prior to this. By this time, your computer will usually be very slow in some cases almost unusable, and you will constantly be prompted to "Upgrade" or to follow a link. If you did use your credit or debit card, it is most likely that a considerable amount could be fraudulently taken.

To Reduce your chances infection.

	Never click on a pop-up when surfing the web.
	Never open unknown emails or attachments.
	Be wary of clicking on inks from other uses on social networking sites like MSN and Facebook
	Only visit reputable websites. Avoid ones offering free downloads or music.
	Make sure your antivirus and antispyware software is working and up to date.
	Make sure that your Firewall is it turned on.
	Use Microsoft automatic updates to keep your operating system software up to date.
	If a security centre warning does appear that you do not recognise, do not click on it. Try running a full virus scan and you can occasionally nip it in the bud before it gets a full hold.

But most importantly, if you do get infected, never follow the link and give them your Credit or Debit card details and avoid all forms of financial transaction on the computer until you have sought professional IT help.

If you feel that any family or friends would benefit from this information or our website wherever they live home or abroad, please email this link to them. http://sittas.com/fake_antivirus.htm

You can view earlier warnings and advice on our website here: Latest, or more general help and support here: Help & Support.