The latest threats cropping up on the internet are malware programs posing as anti spyware software. Commonly called "rogue" anti spyware software, these programs entice users to download and install them through various means, and once installed they then proceed to add their own spyware or malware to the computer.
Incidences of this have risen by 1000% in the last month according to Don Jackson, quoted in an article by ZDNet. (news.zdnet.co.uk)
The scams are reportedly being conducted by 'rings' of online criminals who are collaborating to steal credit card numbers and other pieces of sensitive information.
The rogue anti spyware advertising and free software offers are coming off legitimate websites with legitimate looking ads that redirect hapless victims to illegal hosting and ISP networks like RBN (Russian Business Network) which has been host to a number of other scams and malicious activity.
One way of getting hapless web surfers to download these programs is to use pop up windows that are basically websites or images designed to mimic a Windows dialogue box. Such pop ups then falsely inform the user that they have been or are presently infected with spyware, and must download the program to get rid of it.
Another way of conning people is to offer the program free of charge. This is one reason why such internet websites as thewisesurfer.com do not recommend free spyware software. While there are reputable free spyware programs available for download, there is a risk involved if the software is not from a reputable company.
Although the public is gradually becoming more computer literate, there is still a large population of users who are still new to computers and the internet. Many web users are savvy enough to see through the farce of fake pop up windows and shady software producers, but for every experienced internet user there are three inexperienced ones. These are the people that the criminals are preying on.
Users should also not confuse free software with the free scans that many companies are providing. Virtually all anti spyware software programs will allow a user to download the software and then scan the computer for free, however the user must purchase the program in order to remove the spyware.
TheWiseSurfer.com is a spyware information site that only recommends and reviews reputable products. Before downloading spyware software visit their website at
