Most of us go into curiosity mode when we surf the Internet. One of the keys to the success of the web is that it can, in fact, satisfy our curiosity about almost anything we can think of. Over time we have learned to satisfy this curiosity simply by a mouse click here, and a mouse click there.
So, if you were interested in anti-malware security software, (most surfers are), how likely is it that you would click on the following piece of advertising that states –
“AntiSpywareMaster guarantees your safety online proving reliable non-stop protection of your computer thanks to unique combination of features the most effective ones to ensure the best antivirus defense of PC. (Find out more)”. Given our web induced curiosity, the chances are that at least some surfers will click on this.
In reality however, if you had clicked on this particular ad you would have begun the process of infecting your computer with malware (AntiSpywareMaster) that in the end would attempt to convince you to spend $30 - $50 to remove false positives; fake or false malware detection warnings, that this program is designed to install on your machine.
AntiSpywareMaster, released within the last few days, is rogue security software that uses false advertising, (frequently on free download, Warez and porn websites), malware, or malicious tools, to install itself. As is usually the case with Rogue software, after installation, AntiSpywareMaster will attempt to force users to pay for removal of nonexistent spyware.
Luis Corrons, technical director of PandaLabs, the center of Panda Security’s technical support services, in describing AntiSpywareMaster states, “When we analyzed this malicious code we found a file containing information about the infections to display. So, seemingly, this anti-spyware already knows the malicious code it will detect, before it has even begun to scan the computer! Evidently, this is a malicious program”
Generally, reputable anti-spyware software is capable of detecting rogue software if it attempts to install, or on a malware scan. But this is not always the case. Anti-malware programs that rely on a definition database can be behind the curve in recognizing the newest threats.
A good partial solution to this problem is to ensure you have installed, and are running, an anti-malware application such as ThreatFire 3, free from PC Tools. This type of program operates using heuristics, or behavioral analysis to identify newer threats.
As well, Malwarebytes, a reliable anti-malware company has created a free application to help keep you safe and secure. RogueRemover will safely remove WinAntiSpyware/WinAntiVirus, SpyAxe, VirusBlast, VirusBursters, as well as a number of other rogue applications.
An absolute must is making sure that the security application you are considering installing is recognized as legitimate by industry experts. An excellent web site that will keep you in the loop, and advise you what products work and have a deserved reputation for quality performance is Spyware Warrior.
Some current rogue software:
· AntiVirGear
· AntiVirusGold
· Cleanator
· DriveCleaner
· EasySpywareCleaner
· InfeStop
· Malware Alarm
· PCSecureSystem
· PestTrap
· SpyAxe
· Spylocked
· SpySheriff
· SpySpotter
· Spyware Quake
· Spyware Stormer
· Spy-Rid
· System Live Protect
· UltimateCleaner
· VirusHeat
· VirusProtectPro
· WinAntivirus2006
· WinFixer
Always remember of course, that you are your greatest line of defense against malware. STOP. THINK. CLICK.
