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Tech expert Kurt “CyberGuy" Knutsson says a tech support scam used a fake Windows Defender pop-up, tricking the victim to call and download software.
Software is packaged with a look and feel that mimics legitimate security software in order to deceive consumers. [6] Some websites display pop-up advertisement windows or banners with text such as: "Your computer may be infected with harmful spyware programs. [7] Immediate removal may be required. To scan, click 'Yes' below."
With this access, the scammer may then launch various Windows components and utilities (such as the Event Viewer), install third-party utilities (such as rogue security software) and perform other tasks in an effort to convince the victim that the computer has critical problems that must be remediated, such as infection with a virus.
Koobface is a network worm that attacks Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux platforms. [1] [2] [3] This worm originally targeted users of networking websites such as Facebook, Skype, Yahoo Messenger, and email websites such as GMail, Yahoo Mail, and AOL Mail.
Sometimes these emails can contain dangerous viruses or malware that can infect your computer by downloading attached software, screensavers, photos, or offers for free products. Additionally, be wary if you receive unsolicited emails indicating you've won a prize or contest, or asking you to forward a petition or email.
• Fake email addresses - Malicious actors sometimes send from email addresses made to look like an official email address but in fact is missing a letter(s), misspelled, replaces a letter with a lookalike number (e.g. “O” and “0”), or originates from free email services that would not be used for official communications.
You don't have to be flying blind out there: Software like Malwarebytes Premium can help protect you from online scams and phishing schemes that are trying to steal your sensitive information.
An alternative technique to impersonation-based phishing is the use of fake news articles to trick victims into clicking on a malicious link. These links often lead to fake websites that appear legitimate, [49] but are actually run by attackers who may try to install malware or present fake "virus" notifications to the victim. [50]