Tips to Identify Fake Antivirus

By Rajiv Singha
11 April 2014
4 min read
53 Comments

Antivirus here and there, which one to trust…” Okay that might be a bad phrase, but you get the point right. Fake antivirus software are in line with some of the major threats prevalent on the Internet today. Many people have ended up paying money for such software which are either malicious or just keep lying on their computer hogging space and doing nothing. Cutting the long story short, we are giving you tips to identity fake antivirus software which have become more deceitful with time.

What is a Fake Antivirus?

Fake antivirus, or rogue software in cyber security, is a type of malicious software designed to deceive users into believing their devices are infected with viruses, spyware, or other threats. These programs often display alarming pop-up messages, claiming to have detected numerous infections on your system. They create a sense of urgency, pressuring you to purchase a “full version” or subscribe to their fake virus scan service to remove the supposed threats.

In reality, these fake antivirus software programs are nothing more than a scam. They prey on users’ fears and lack of technical knowledge to manipulate them into handing over their money and personal information. Falling victim to a fake antivirus scam can lead to financial losses, stolen data, and even the installation of actual malware on your device.

How Do Fake Antivirus Get on People’s Computers?

Fake antivirus programs employ various tactics to infiltrate users’ devices. One common method is through malicious websites that display intrusive pop-ups claiming your computer is infected. These websites often use scare tactics, urging you to download their “free” antivirus solution to remove the supposed threats. In reality, clicking on these pop-ups or downloading the offered software will install the rogue security software onto your system.

Examples of Fake Antivirus Software

To help you recognize fake antivirus programs, let’s take a look at some notorious examples:

“Microsoft Total Security”: This fake antivirus program impersonates Microsoft’s security software, displaying warnings about non-existent threats.

“Mac Defender”: Targeting Mac users, this rogue security software claims to detect viruses and demands payment for removal.

“System Defender”: Mimicking the Windows Defender interface, this fake antivirus generates false alerts and urges users to purchase a license.

“SpywareGuard 2008”: This program conducts fake scans, displays fictitious infections, and pressures users into buying a useless “full version.”

“Antivirus 360”: Disguised as a legitimate security solution, this fake antivirus software bombards users with pop-ups and false warnings.

Remember, legitimate antivirus software providers will never use aggressive scare tactics or pressure you into making immediate purchases. If you encounter any of these or similar programs, proceed with caution and avoid falling for their deceptive tactics.

How to Identify Fake Antivirus Software

Exaggerated Notifications

Fake antivirus have a knack of exaggerating things. They will inform you about threats that do not exist on your computer. They will always draw a sense of urgency and panic.

Pay Per Clean

Fake antivirus are solely created to siphon money from their victims. A fake antivirus will project as if it is scanning your PC for infections, and after scanning it will demand money to clean the system. A genuine antivirus, even if it’s a free trial copy, will detect an infection, clean it and give you a report of the same.

Every Scan Detects Infections

Fake antivirus have this mysterious, supernatural technology that helps them detect at least a dozen infections with every scan. Even if two harmless notepads on your system are scanned by a fake antvirus, odds are, you will get an infection alert.

Bucket Full of Alerts and Notifications

An essential feature of modern antivirus software is their less intrusive nature. Most legitimate, trusted, and advanced security software try not to bother the user unless it is a matter of great urgency. Quick Heal, for instance, has a feature called Silent Mode. Once it is activated, you will not receive any kind of notifications on your computer. And this, does not affect your PC’s overall security. It just means that the antivirus is doing its job without creating a scene. Fake antivirus, on the other hand, are like hypersensitive alert systems that go off even with the touch of a feather. Such software will keep pushing fake, annoying popups and notifications.

Google is not Speaking Good About it

If Googling your antivirus gives back badmouthed user reviews and comments, and no legitimate website or source, then that speaks volumes about the antivirus you are going to install or you already have. Trusted and known antivirus software are placed pretty well in Google search results. They may be having negative user comments, but which service or product does not. The important thing is, they are real and do what they should do – protect users from malware and viruses.

So, that would be all for a quick lowdown on some useful tips you can use to spot fake antivirus. If you have Quick Heal on your system, then you need not worry about this. However, you can always share these tips with your friends and acquaintances. Stay safe!

How to Remove Fake Antivirus Software

If you suspect that your device is infected with a fake antivirus, take the following steps to remove it:

Disconnect from the internet: This prevents the rogue software from communicating with its command and control server.

Enter Safe Mode: Restart your device and boot into Safe Mode to prevent the fake antivirus from loading.

Uninstall the program: Go to your device’s control panel or settings and uninstall the suspicious antivirus software.

Run a legitimate antivirus scan: Use a reputable security software like Quick Heal Total Security to perform a full system scan and remove any remaining threats.

Update your software: Ensure your operating system and all installed programs are updated to patch any vulnerabilities.

Seek professional help: If the fake antivirus proves difficult to remove, consider seeking assistance from a trusted IT professional.

How to Avoid Fake Antivirus Software

Prevention is key when it comes to protecting your devices from fake antivirus threats. Here are some best practices to follow:

Install reputable security software from trusted providers and keep it up to date.

Avoid clicking on suspicious pop-ups, ads, or links that claim your device is infected.

Be cautious when downloading software from the internet. Only trust official sources.

Keep your operating system and software patched with the latest security updates.

Educate yourself about common fake antivirus tactics and red flags.

Regularly back up your important data to protect against potential losses.

Conclusion

In the fight against cyberthreats, knowledge is power. By understanding how to identify fake antivirus programs and taking proactive measures to avoid them, you can safeguard your devices and personal information from falling victim to these deceptive scams. Remember, legitimate security software providers prioritize virus protection without resorting to scare tactics or aggressive sales pitches. Stay vigilant, trust your instincts, and always rely on reputable sources for your cybersecurity needs. With these tips in mind, you can confidently navigate the digital landscape and keep rogue security software at bay.

Tips to Identify Fake Antivirus

Rajiv Singha

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