Don’t be fooled by fake antivirus / antispyware

July 27th, 2009

There’s been a virus warning popping up on computers and it’s had several different faces, but one common theme. It has been known as Antivirus 2008, Antivirus 2009, Spyware Protect 2009, and Antivirus System Pro and is now rearing its ugly head as Windows Security Suite. This is a rogue anti-spayware program that is advertised and installed through the use of malware. This software generally is installed by tricking the user into installing it. It was created by the same people who released Spyware Protect 2009 and Antivirus System Pro.

Once installed, it modifies Window registry entries to protect itself. It will disable or cripple other security applications such as McAfee, Symantec, Zone Alarm, Avast and others. It will be very difficult or impossible to remove it by using these programs.

It will “scan” your computer and tell you that you have many infections, however, they are all fake. It makes the user think they need this program to clean your computer. Of course, if you click on the link, they will be happy to take your money without actionally doing anything. These fake alerts will pop up every 1-2 minutes and basically bug you to death.

The Windows Security Suite program will also hijack your browser, creating a fake search tool. It impersonates the Windows Live search and the Google search. The search results come from search-gala.com and most likely link out to malicious software or other parasites.

If your computer is infected with Windows Security Suite, you can follow any of the links below to learn how to remove it.

Always be careful when surfing the internet and think before you click. Also, keep any legitimate antivirus and anti-spyware up-to-date.

You can search for Windows Security Suite, or click one of the links below: