Computer viruses can be anywhere and infect our machines with just a single click of the mouse. Using traditional Anti-Virus programs and guidelines (such as not opening strange emails, etc.) certainly help keep us protected. However, a new threat has emerged that is particularly tricky: Antivirus 2010.
Even though it claims to be good software, Antivirus 2010 is malware!!!
Antivirus 2010 comes in many varieties, but they all have the same basic components. The virus spreads via infected websites, and sometimes the only way to tell if a website is infected is when the virus tries to infect your machine. The way it tries to install itself is very clever…
The first thing that happens is that a screen will pop up saying that you are infected with a virus. Typically, it looks something like this:
Now, most people’s first instinct is likely going to be to click on the “System Scan” or “Update Now” button to clean the infection. However, clicking on either of those buttons will actually install the virus. In fact, even clicking the red x at the top of the window may install the virus. It will then start looking like it is actually scanning your computer. However, it is just installing the virus. Eventually, it will tell you that more viruses were found and that you need to purchase the full version of the software to fully clean your computer. This is just an attempt to steal your credit card number.
So, what should you do when you see this type of warning pop up on your computer?
Actually, you should do exactly what you should do if you see the actual McAfee virus warning pop up on your computer (see screenshot below):
Don’t click anything and call EdIT right away! (Our phone number is 765-494-2658)
Education IT will stop by and investigate and let you know if the warning is real. Usually, if you haven’t clicked anything, we can shut down the computer and prevent the virus from installing.
If it is actually McAfee telling you that there is a virus on your computer, then we need to see what the virus is in order to take care of it properly.
Remember, a 10 minute visit by an Education IT staff member could save you from having to spend a day without your computer while it is being re-installed. So don’t hesitate to give us a call: 765-494-2658
Thank you and happy computing!!!
— Education IT