What's coming with that download? Beware of fake security software!
By Rick Castellini
Special to PRIME
I write an article similar to this one and post it every few weeks on my web site. I do this not because I'm short on ideas, but because too many people aren't heeding my warnings . yet.
Have you been a victim?
These past few weeks have been an awful one for folks getting fake security software infections on their computers. This fake security software usually poses as virus warning on your computer that urges you to scan your computer with their product, and then buy it to get rid of the infections.
The warning is fake, the software is fake, and giving the cretins your credit card number can cause you months of anguish.
It's a Windows problem
Fake security software infections occur only on Windows computers and happens even if you protect yourself with antivirus and antispyware software.
Most of the time, the infection gets on a computer by piggybacking along with something else you are trying to download or access.
The list of culprits includs, but is not
limited to:
- Free screensavers
- Free wallpaper
- Free games
- Free security software (there are great products available, but make sure you know what you are getting and where you are getting it from).
- Online credit checks
- Online gambling
- Online porn
- Free music downloads
- Free movie downloads
- Clicking on search results that appear to be related what you are searching for, but are not.
Riding the wave of popular culture
The bad guys have figured out how to take advantage of what is popular at any given time (Hurricane Katrina, financial crisis, election results, celebrity photos, etc). As you install the programs listed above or access the services listed, you agree to put the junk on your system and it then stealthy slips by any existing security software you have in place. Removing the infections can be extremely difficult and may even require a professional to extricate it.
Don't become a victim!
If you follow a few simple rules, you can avoid the time, cost and frustration associated with these infections.
- Stop using Internet Explorer. Instead use Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome
- Make sure you know what you are downloading is safe or what service you are using is legit.
How do you know? Be extremely discerning when looking through search engine results, start at reputable sites (for almost any kind of software downloading, I start at www.Download.com).
- If something doesn't smell right, get out . fast.
- Use the many helpful tips and how-to instructions at my web site to learn how to keep your computer running trouble free. Visit my site at: www.helpmerick.com/tag/security.
Rick Castellini is an author, computer consultant, and hosts a computer radio show from Colorado. Visit his web site atwww.helpmerick.com for new tips every week and sign up for his free weekly email newsletter. You can also follow Rick on Twitter
@HelpMeRick
