Sep082010

ALERT! New scareware scheme

This news just in from AV solution provider Sunbelt Software:

Security researchers have uncovered a new scareware attack named MSIL/Zeven, which lures users into downloading a fake antivirus software.

The malware identifies users' browsers and displays an authentic-looking version of the browsers' malware warning page, as a way of convincing individuals that the alert is real. When users click on the link presented in the fake warning page, they are directed to a website where they can purchase antivirus software known at "Win7 AV."

The site that offers the antivirus software is designed to look identical to a legitimate Microsoft website, though security experts warn users that the page is fake. To defend against these malicious crimes, leaders in the field advise users to be skeptical of what they download from off the internet, as well as install the latest malware protections.

Many researchers have found the new attack website's design is so close to the real thing, even skilled professionals have a difficult time deducing whether it's a fake.

Recently, security analysts uncovered scareware malware loaded onto a computer at a major airport in England. The presence of malware on public terminals could be a dangerous signal for web users, who may be giving their private information to cyber crooks without even realizing it.



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Aug052009

This is a test!

Can you spot the warning signs in the screen capture below?

It's a sneaky malware attack designed to sucker you into installing "security" software designed to extort money from you (much like other products I've talked about previously).

The threat discovered by Sunbelt Security is very real and very tricky since most casual PC users may have never encountered a BSOD. Read about what Sunbelt says about the threat here

Fake BSOD

Your first clue should be that a Windows "STOP" error, also known as a BSOD (Blue Screen of Death) does NOT happen inside a web browser window.

Your second clue should be that in the event of a real STOP error, there is never an option to repair anything.

Remember, it's a nasty jungle online. Surf safe and smart.

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