Fakeware (fake security software) is a popular security attack. The virus, trojan or spyware masquerades as software that is useful, trying to help you protect your computer. Its headline looks official. You will see a pop-up saying something like this: “Your computer is infected. Would you like to remove these infections?” It might even show a list of infected files to get your attention.
Of course! You click YES. The next thing you know, windows are popping up all over the place saying your computer is infected. When you try to launch your browser it takes you to a malware site seeking to extract a payment. At that point you really are infected.
The version my clients have seen uses the title XP Antispyware 2010 (last year it was 2009). Titles can change. The first question you should ask is “Did this message come from my security software?” If you are running AVG, Norton, McAfee or whatever, the pop up message should have their banner. If the answer is NO, try to close the popup window. Call your support professional.
How did this virus sneak past security? It didn’t. It happens when you visit a website that is infected or has a malicious intent. The fakeware launches through a pop-up window that suggests you need to take action now.
What can you do to prevent this problem?
- Block popups in your browser.
- Be wary of websites you visit. If a deal that attracted you is too good to be true, it probably is.
- Don’t click on links from people you don’t know.
- If your business can afford it, invest in hardware and software that will limit the websites you and your employees can visit. I know that sounds harsh, but many of the infestations come in because people are just surfing the web.
What if you become infected? In this case, we downloaded free software from Malwarebytes which cleared the infection. Understand, that once your browser is compromised, you won’t be able to download a solution. Just turn off the computer and call for help.
The lesson: Be wary of the websites you visit. Not all of them are as friendly or as innocent as they seem.
Wishing you safe passage through the I.T. Minefield!
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Small business security is discussed in greater detail in Navigating the I.T. Minefield – Straight Talk for the Small Enterprise.
Leslie Knight is a small business consultant with over 20 years of experience in Information Technology management in Fortune 500 companies. She applies her experience in Corporate America saving them millions to smaller entrepreneurial enterprises. She is also the author of Navigating the I.T. Minefield. If you’d like to purchase a copy, please visit http://bit.ly/SNL4W.
