Recognizing and avoiding Rogue Software or FakeAlert Trojans

Fake or rogue software and FakeAlert Trojans are illegitimate security applications that are presented as valid, for monetary gain. This scam involves the distribution or aggressive promotion of a Trojan disguised as legitimate security software. While these programs usually use scare tactics and behave aggressively, it may still be difficult to recognize the illegitimate behavior and distinguish a valid product from a fake or rogue software product.

Some common symptoms include:

• Receiving multiple pop-up messages which state that your system is infected and prompt you to download specific software to remove the infection.
• Receiving notifications from an application that you've never seen before which tell you there are an unusually high number of viruses or other malware on your computer, and won't clean them unless you purchase the product.
• New icons for an unknown program show up on your desktop or in the taskbar beside your clock.
• Unexpected network connections are made to unknown domain(s) when you open your web browser or while browsing the Internet, you are directed to a page other than your home page or intended destination.

Note: Do not click directly on these pop-up messages, even to close them. Clicking Cancel or the X in the top right corner can sometimes cause the application to install itself.