SCAREware!!! BEware!!!!

What is a scareware? Scareware refers to bogus sales tactics designed to scare a user into thinking his or her computer contains critical errors or viruses that must be fixed immediately. For a price, scareware ads offer an instant solution in the form of downloadable software. In some cases this software is harmless, in other cases the software meant to fix non-existent errors is actually spyware or some form of malware itself, victimizing consumers twice.

  

A scareware ad might pop-up at any time when cruising the Web. The ad can resemble a Microsoft window or it might trigger an actual window, leading people to believe the message is being generated by their own operating system.The pop-up warns the user that the computer is compromised in one or more ways and requires a fix. The warning might cite viruses or system errors such as registry errors. Clicking an “OK” button will take the user to the download site to buy the “fix.”

To avoid being targeted by scareware companies, employ a pop-up blocker configured to block third-party sites. If using XP SP1, upgrade to SP2 or disable Windows Messenger (versus Windows Live messenger), as this can be an entry point for malicious scripts. If you want to use an online scanner, look for recommendations from reputable sources like PCWorld or Tom’s Hardware. Better yet, download a reliable scanner and use it from your hard drive. If you practice good maintenance habits and have the usual guardian programs running, you have little reason to fear infections or errors.

If YOU SMELL!!!!!