Rogue Antivirus Software use to be quite a problem. I frequently cleaned computers that were infected with Rogue Antivirus Software. The infections seemed to die down as users became more familiar with the names of legitimate Antivirus software and stopped downloading Rogue software. So, what has caused the Return of the Rogue…

What is a Rogue Antivirus:
Rogue Antivirus programs usually contain a virus of some sort themselves. They tell the user they are infected with various viruses prompting them to purchase their software. At times this Rogue software contains bundles of viruses infecting the user’s computer making them nonfunctional. One of the biggest tell-tale signs one has installed a Rogue is that they are unable to do anything on their computer without the program pestering them. Legitimate Anitvirus software will notify the user they have a virus, but will not make it nearly impossible to use the pc.

Why a new sudden increase?
The virus creators are clearly on the prowl again. They go through cycles it seems. I imagine the recent release of Windows 7 has prompted some excitement from these creative minds. Users also no longer have to seek out these programs. They often will self-install, typically called, a drive-by download. One is surfing the web and next thing they know, they are infected.

Advice to combat:
Stop downloading. Purchase legitimate Antivirus software prior to being infected, Kaspersky Internet Security, is the best in my opinion. Use Mozilla Firefox. Keep Windows Updates current (site requires IE).

If All Else Fails:
I do still perform clean-ups, feel free to contact me for a free quote. One also can research removal tools needed once realizing they have installed something mistakenly. There also are many forums willing to help with removal for free.

~Safe Surfing~