FAKE |
 | Often distributed using fictitious ‘security alert/warning’ pop-ups or advertisements, they use scare tactics to dupe users into believing their computers are infected with viruses or other malware. Usually pretending to scan the PC before reporting non-existent threats, they typically prompt users to download and install antivirus software. However, the fake AV software is |
Over the past year, web
security experts have seen a huge growth in such attacks, with variants
growing from less than 1000 to over half a million. Many of the fake alerts
appear very plausible, making use of familiar-looking operating system
security messages and imagery.
Officers advise users to be
vigilant and to protect themselves using reputable, regularly updated
security software, and to ensure they are familiar with its operation and
alerting methods.
| Users should be highly suspicious of any security warning messages that have not originated from the antivirus software currently installed on their PC and should not accept any unsolicited offers to scan their PC for malware. |  |
Users should verify any
warning messages by initiating security scans from within their own
antivirus software.
No genuine security
warning will ask users to download and install any antivirus software.
Effective online security
is crucial, and in addition to running up-to-date anti-virus, anti-spyware
and firewall software, users should ensure their operating systems are kept
fully patched by installing published security updates promptly. Internet
Explorer 6 users should upgrade their browsers without delay.
 | Even the best security software cannot protect against gullibility and ignorance, however, and must be supported by caution, user commonsense and awareness of Internet-based threats. For this |
Further information
about Staffordshire Neighbourhood Watch can be obtained by telephoning
Staffordshire Police on 0300-123-44-55 or by visiting the OWL web-site
at www.owl.co.uk
