PC users should be wary of the growing problem of fake Anti Virus (“fake AV”) products distributed online. 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 others. 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 actually malware that will likely compromise the security of the PC and the user’s personal information, or will generate annoying and intrusive alerts until a payment is made.

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.

Click here to return to main Scam Page and Advice.