Frauds versus security tools versus trust issues
By Luciana on February 10, 2012 | Security basics, Security programs, fake antispyware, rogue antispyware, rogue security tools, infection warnings, security tips
Does this sound familiar? You have a trial version of a security program. It scans your computer, it reports infections, but it will not delete any unless you buy the full version. Or it cleans your computer well, but the demo version does not include firewall/pop-up blocker/spam filter. Now, how can you tell if the program is there to help you or if it is a fraud hunting your money?
Working in this field for several years I see the same puzzled comments over and over again: “How is Spyware Doctor better than Windows Vista Antispyware 2012? They both want my money” as well as “I paid for a license of Security Shield 2011 but I’m yet to receive activation code”. Since fake security tools imitate reputable programs very well, it’s easy to get confused. And it’s easy to mistake a fraud for a helpful thing or a firewall notification for an advertising pop-up. Let’s make things clear and learn what the difference is between rogue program and the real security tool and how you can check if application loading alerts on your screen in a genuine one.
The design of real and fake programs might be similar or even almost identical, but there is a huge difference in the way they operate. Here’s what a real computer security program looks like and why it is worth having:
• Real tool actually detects infections while fake one generates counterfeit report. Reputable security programs scan a computer and find parasites no matter if they hide in your files, in machine registry or if they are disguised as browser add-ons. Hint: errors and infections reported by fake tools do not exist on your PC. In some rare cases, files reported as infected by the fake program are installed by the tool itself.
• Real program is able to delete threats. Some trial versions may have this functions disabled, but nevertheless, genuine security program can erase spyware, viruses and other types of malware from your computer. Fake program on the other hand, only claim to have this function. Therefore, rogue program is useless while the real antimalware can make your life much easier. If you buy the “full version” of a counterfeit app, it will not turn into a functional tool.
• Real program is NOT installed without your permission while fake tool spreads via trojans and fraudulent websites. If a program appeared out of nowhere, it’s most likely an infection no matter if it says ‘Antivirus Best Ever 2015’ in its title. Exception: If you buy a computer with pre-installed operating system and programs, chances are you get some kind of virus defender as well. Check papers to see what software was installed.
Is the program on your computer a real security application or is it a scam? The answer may be unclear at the first glance, but here’s how you can quickly decide:
• What are online reviews of the program? Open a search engine (Google, Bing, etc.) on your browser and type the name of the program. If the results listed are software reviews, the tool is most likely legitimate and functional. If the results offer articles on how to delete the program and block its pop-ups and get a refund, the tool is a fraud targeting your money.
• Does it excessively limit your actions and use of your computer? Some genuine security programs may display numerous warnings; however they let you choose whether you want to ignore the threat or if you want it blocked/deleted/quarantined (depending on type of the program). Fake programs use much more intimidating methods to “report” problems. If the tool won’t let you open any application, browse the web, change you wallpaper, it is most likely a rogue antimalware. Real security program let you configure notifications and even disable them, while a fake tool bombards a screen with numerous pop-ups each time you move a mouse pointer.
• Other signs of rogue antispyware.
Whenever you suspect that a program might be fraudulent, do an online research to see its reputation before you download or purchase it. Fake security tools might not the biggest threat to your computer and privacy; however, they target your money and halt a machine making it difficult to use it. Learn more on why fake security tools are potentially dangerous.
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