The FBI recently released a new report on “Scareware” and how it preys on innocent computer users and tricks them into purchasing fake antivirus software. Sadly, it’s common for cyber criminals inside and outside the United States to create “botnets.” It’s basically a large network of computers under the control of criminals used to take advantage of your computer. When users click on the fake ads they are directed to other sites controlled by the criminals, which in turn will steal information.
The FBI says in May 2010, three suspects were charged in Illinois with one of these fake scams that affected users in 60 other countries to purchase fake software worth more than $100 million. “Two of the defendants, including an American, are accused of running an overseas company that claimed to sell antivirus and computer performance/repair software over the Internet. A third man operated the company’s Cincinnati call center, which was responsible for technical and billing support to its customers (but in reality deflected complaints from consumers who realized the software didn’t work).” The elaborate scam would take money off credit cards and deposit it into bank accounts for the defendants.
INFORMATION FROM THE FBI’S RECENT PRESS RELEASE:
How to spot a scareware scam:
Does the pop-up use “non-clickable” icons? To build authenticity into their software, scareware will show a list of reputable icons—like those of software companies or security publications. However, the user can’t click through to the sites to see the actual reviews or recommendations.
Is the pop-up ad hard to close? Scareware pop-ups employ aggressive techniques and will not close easily after clicking the “close” or “X” button.
Have you heard of the software before? Cyber criminals use easy-to-remember names like Virus Shield, Antivirus, or VirusRemover.
How to protect yourself from scareware: Make sure your computer is fully protected by legitimate, up-to-date antivirus software. If you think you’ve been victimized by scareware: File a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.
Tags: arrest, cyber criminals, cyber threat, fbi, protect your computer, report, Scareware
