How to Identify a Fake Antivirus?

 

How to Identify a Fake Antivirus?

There are many so-called antivirus that clean your computer for free, but in reality they are malware that infect your PC or Android device learning to identify them before falling into the trap is vital to avoid being contaminated Kaspersky Lab offers you all the keys

The fake antivirus programs use a similar strategy to the phishing, but applied to programs and apps. The phishing is a false website that simulates your bank's website or a social network, so you enter your account data, and so steal what contains: information, money, contacts, etc.

The fake antivirus are programs that have the appearance and the name of an antivirus. They even pretend to check and clean your equipment. But it's actually malware infecting you right before your very eyes:

This type of infection is advertised through pop-up windows or banners that appear on certain websites while you browse, announcing that you are infected with Trojans or spyware. Then they offer you a free antivirus to remove it.

They have names very similar to real antivirus, like Titan Antivirus 2013 or Super AV , and if you download and install them, they look like any antivirus:

They will simulate a check on your PC or Android device, and will detect numerous infections, but everything is a lie. In reality, the "antivirus" itself is infecting your computer with viruses, Trojans, worms, or other malware.

At first glance, they are not easy to detect, so the security company Kaspersky has published a series of tips to learn how to uncover these types of threats:

Investigate its origin

Before downloading or installing anything, do an internet search to find out about the name of the antivirus, its creators, and its website. This way you will know if it is to be trusted. Be wary of antivirus of unknown origin, or that have negative comments on the Internet.

Suspicious activities

If the antivirus asks for your credit card, email or any other personal information to update it, it is a sign that it is not what it seems.

Perform periodic check-ups

Many of these fake Antiviruses stay installed and pretend to carry out periodic checks or protect you in the background, but in reality they are using your computer as a botnet to commit misdeeds.

So it is advisable to perform occasionally check virus, with some trusted free online tool, such as Antivirus Scanner free of Kaspersky.

Activate defenses

Once you have a reliable antivirus, activate the firewall and the antispam, antiphishing and antibanner options, to block any rogue antivirus that tries to trick you. With these simple tips, you will avoid these types of threats that are becoming more frequent and sophisticated.

If you are concerned about the security of your devices, do not miss this complete article about Ransomware .