PandaLabs - Two New Fake Anti-spyware Detected

PandaLabs has released a report "2010 Computer Threat Trends," in which it predicts that IT users will face the problem of malware in 2010. Indeed, the company's forecast appears to be taking shape as a pair of new malware pieces has recently detected.

First - "Malware Defense" is a fake anti-spyware program, which has been contaminating PCs worldwide for several weeks. The virus (Malware Defense) loads itself on users' PCs through Trojans. This fake anti-spyware software always poses as an essential flash update or a similar video codec.

Moreover, when malware Defense gets loaded, the virus simply starts to falsely scan the infected Windows PC. Once the scanning is over, it displays an alert message that the user's PC has multiple infections on it and to clean them, the user must purchase the complete version of malware Defense.

The fake software shows several bogus warnings on the desktop of the contaminated computer in an attempt to convince the user that infection has indeed set on his system. However, users are advised not to buy the software since it is nothing but a scam.

The second malware piece detected is "Rapidantivirus." This bogus anti-spyware software causes infection on end-users' PCs through the Vondus or Zlobs Trojan, spam mails, adult websites, banner advertisements, pop-ups and peer-to-peer communities. Further, it belongs to the same group of malicious software that includes 'Power antivirus 2009' and 'Antivir64.'

Additionally, similar to malware Defense, Rapid antivirus also pops up bogus messages of numerous infections. According to reports, in a few instances, the fake program warned of 40+ infections on the system.

Indeed, Rapidantivirus is the most prominent fake anti-spyware software till date. Even the website that downloads it is also cleverly constructed. But the site doesn't give the name or contact details of the program's creators.

Finally, such attacks can be mitigated and people can avoid falling prey to their predatory exercises if they follow certain 'best practices.' For instance - users should ensure that their computers have up-to-date security protection and the security software has been acquired from legitimate and trusted sources.

Related article: PandaLabs Report Discusses Movie Trojan and Other Worms

» SPAMfighter News - 1/15/2010