Next time you are on the Internet, check your antivirus software for updates, assuming you do have an antivirus program installed. If not, install one immediately. Not having an antivirus program can be disastrous in an era where malicious code and Trojan viruses pop up so frequently.
Although how hard we try and keep our computers free from these offenders, Rogue Antivirus software prevails. Named malware, scareware or rogue antivirus software, once on your computer it can damage your computer system along with trying to trick it to get you to buy something in exchange for your credit card numbers, while totally immobilizing your computer.
The warning screen will appear as your anti-virus is doing its job, when in actuality it is a fake pop-up screen that will warn you that you an extreme amount of viruses, mostly Trojan viruses on your computer. The directions proceeding the warning will require you to buy a full version anti-software program, which is actually the Rogue Antivirus software itself. Rogue antivirus programs often generate more fake alerts than the software made by reputable companies.
You may be bombarded with pop-ups, even when you're not online. High-pressure sales will try to convince you to click on the ad and make a purchase right away. If you've been infected, your computer may dramatically slow down. Other signs of infection include:
- New desktop icons
- New wallpaper
- Your default homepage redirected to another site.
Removing the software might be a bit harder than you think to remove only because it locks the control panel and tries to prevent you from using the Add/Remove programs function. Now, if that isn’t enough to ruin your day, the software will also try and prevent you from downloading real anti-virus programs as it tries to get you to enter your credit card numbers by insisting that you purchase their antivirus software.
Staying clear of peer-to-peer sites, pornographic sites, free screensavers in emails, toolbars, free downloads and sites that offer codecs for video clips is a way of avoiding the potentially crippling virus. Turn on pop-up blocker on your computer. This will automatically keep pop-ups from appearing on your screen. But the only way to prevent this virus is to have a reputable antivirus from a company such as Symantec or McAfee or any other antivirus reviewed by StarReview to name a few and always visit trusted web sites. If you have broadband Internet, most providers will supply a free anti-virus for personal use.
Utilizing a firewall will also protect your computer from any malicious files being downloaded on your computer. Most reputable anti-virus program web sites will also offer firewalls. Computers have ports that can be accessed by anyone wanting to send you malicious files. With a firewall that is updated and always working, this makes the
attempt virtually impossible.
Routinely backing up your computer’s data should be a routine for anyone using a computer. After the removal of Rogue Anti-Virus Software, back up your data. You can put your files on a DVD or another computer.
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A list of all
Rogue Antivirus Malicious Software can be found
here. Remember, windows does not have pop-up windows to warn you about viruses. Only your real anti-virus software to protect against viruses has pop-up windows. Bleepingcomputer.com has freeware downloads to remove The Rogue Anti-Virus Software, although you can visit Symantech.com or any anti-virus manufacturer’s website. After removing The
Rogue Antivirus Software, use a program like CCleaner to clean up and optimize your computer from any left over unused files.
Word of caution, before running any of the following programs above, you should turn off
System Restore, you won't be able to use
System Restore as this deletes all restore points. If you don't turn it off, the programs may not be able to access those system files to clean them. If you are infected the System Restore is not going to return you to an earlier uninfected date anyway. You can turn it back on after you have successfully removed the Rogue Antivirus program.
Never leave your computer unprotected without an
antivirus program and firewall. Always think twice when visiting a site before clicking on any links. Remember, keep in mind, if it looks too good to be true, it probably is. Protecting yourself now saves a lot of grief later.
Tags:
antivirus software,
security software