Also called
smitfraud,
scareware, or
rogue security software, this type of software is
defined as
malware —
it is designed specifically to damage or disrupt a computer system. In this
case, not only is the software going to disrupt your system, it's going to try
and trick you into making a purchase using your credit card.
This specific type of malware appears to users in the form of a fake Windows
warning on your computer system that reads you have a specific number of
viruses on your
computer (usually in the hundreds) and that this software has detected those
viruses. To get rid of them you must download and purchase the full-version of
the
antivirus
software. It's important to remember that by purchasing the "
claimed full
version to remove the viruses" you will be submitting your personal
information to unscrupulous persons and may also end up being a victim of credit
card or
identity fraud
or theft.
The good news is that you probably do not have a computer that is infested with
hundreds of viruses as the rouge software claims. The bad news is that the rogue
antivirus software itself is on your computer and you must remove it, a process
that is hindered as the rouge software usually locks the control panel and the
the Add/Remove Programs function to prevent users from removing it. Other things
that may be disrupted by the rogue software include being unable to visit
reputable and valid antivirus and malware Web sites, being able to install
legitimate antivirus software and also being unable to access your desktop.
Common names of some rogue antivirus software include; AntiVirus (2007, 2008,
and 2009), MS-Antispyware, XP AntiVirus (2007, 2008, and 2009), Home Antivirus
2009, SpyWareGuard, Malware Cleaner, Extra Antivirus, as well as many other
names.
See "Rogue
Anti-Virus Software Explained" in the
Did You Know...?
section of Webopedia.
