Computer experts are reporting that scareware, programs or pop ups that list viruses purportedly attacking your computer and then pretending to provide security or anti-virus software to fix those viruses—is on the rise.
This is yet another sneaky technique used by hackers to steal personal information, infect your computer with viruses or to scare you into spending money on worthless anti-virus protection. Most recently, companies like Google, Twitter and the New York Times are being exploited by hackers as part of a massive scareware attack on consumers. Better Business Bureau is offering advice to consumers on how to protect their computers and personal information from the threat of scareware.
“The recent scareware attacks are cropping up everywhere and can be found on even the most trusted web sites online,” said Matthew Fehling, BBB President/CEO. “The threat of scareware undermines consumer trust in compromised web sites, and on the Internet in general, but there are steps computer users can take to protect themselves.”
In mid-September, visitors to the New York Time’s Web site suddenly received a pop up window — which looked like a message from their own computer — warning that their computer had been infected with a virus. The user was then told to visit a web site to purchase and download anti-virus software that would fix the problem. The supposed antivirus software actually installed even more viruses and malware onto the computer — and the user’s credit card number was now in the hands of hackers.
The same scenario on the New York Times Web site is playing out all over the Internet. According to Computer World Magazine, hackers are not only using pop up ads, they are also “poisoning Google search results.” Hackers monitor the news and hot topics online — such as “balloon boy” or the World Series — and through search engine optimization techniques are able to ensure that their web sites are the top results. Victims who click on the fake search results receive a scareware pop up.
Microsoft has been warning the public that scareware attacks are severely on the rise and now the company is fighting back. The company filed lawsuits against five companies, accusing them of being the source of scareware attacks.
Following are steps computer users can take to protect their computer from a scareware attack:
Never let your guard down. A scareware attack can happen on trusted news sites like the New York Times, in search engines results from Google, and even now on Twitter.
Protect your computer. Install updates to your operating system, purchase antivirus software from a name you trust and keep that software up to date. Also make sure that all security patches and updates are installed for your Web browser and programs like Adobe Flash Player.
Take immediate action during an attack. If you receive a scareware pop up window, experts recommend forcing the window to close through your task manager. To do this, hold down ctrl, alt, and delete at the same time, open your task manager, find the browser in the list of running programs and click “end task.” Finally, run an antivirus scan with legitimate, trusted software.
If you clicked on the pop up and actually purchased the software, the prognosis is not good. The Washington Post offers advice on their Security Fix blog, but for the not-so-computer-savvy, you might need to call in a professional.
For more advice on fighting off hackers and staying safe online, visit www.bbb.org.
About BBB Serving Central, Northern & Western Arizona
BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. Incorporated locally in 1938, today your BBB serves communities in Central, Northern and Western Arizona, supported by over 10,000 BBB Accredited Businesses. BBB provides objective advice, free business BBB Reliability ReportsTM and charity BBB Wise Giving ReportsTM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust.