Beware, Do not Install Fake Software

Symantec announced their report entitled Report on Rogue Security Software. From the report, during July 2008 to June 2009, seen a trend that cybercriminal use trick users to purchase fake security software. 

Fake security software, or "scareware", is software that claimed to be security software. The application is actually little or no benefit at all. In fact, he might even install a malicious program to reduce the overall computer security.

"The findings of the Report on Rogue Security Software makes it clear that cyberspace criminals are ready, and has a complete tool to prey on Internet users," said Stephen Trilling, Senior Vice President, Symantec Security Technology and Response.

"To avoid being victims of these predatory practices, Symantec strongly recommends to anyone on the Internet to ensure that they are using the latest security protection, and always buy their security software directly from a trusted vendor sites," said Trilling. 

To ensure that users are not aware that installing their software, warning that cybercriminal place users will take advantage of fears of security attacks. 

Warnings are usually given false claims such as 'If flickering, your computer may be at risk or infected with' that 'forcing' users to follow a link. Link aims to 'scan' the computer or the software to eliminate the threat. 

According to the study, 93% install software from a fake security software 50 top downloaded intentionally by the user. Until June 2009, Symantec has detected more than 250 kinds of fake security software programs. 

Initial financial losses suffered by consumers who download the counterfeit products vary from U.S. $ 30 to U.S. $ 100. However, greater losses could arise related to the cost of the individual to regain a stolen identity. 

Security programs are not fake trick users only for the money, but personal data and credit card information provided during the purchase can be used for other scams or sold at forums black market that ended with identity theft. 

Worse, some fake security software also installs a malicious program that makes users run the risk of attack from other threats. 

For example, the program can be instructed fake users to lower security settings or dissable it when performing the software registration or prevent the user when they want to access the web site after installing security official. 

This causes the user to face the threat that promised would be protected by the fake software.