Some days I seem to face recurring themes. Today's was extortionware. Extortion is when someone forces you into paying money to solve a problem that the person or institution requiring payment caused. If that doesn't make a lot of sense, ask Rick to explain how his "If you want to keep your kneecaps – go get nachos for us," program works during the show on Saturday.
We have spelled out our proven method of home computer security countless times here on HelpMeRick, but just as a reminder here it is again in brief:
1. Don't use Internet Explorer to surf the web unless you have to
2. Don't use Norton or McAfee products – Instead use AVG, Avast, TrendMicro, or Panda Antivirus
3. Don't use security suites
4. Only run antispyware programs if you think you have an infection
5. To remove spyware, only use AVG AntiSpyware, Adaware, Spybot Search & Destroy, HiJack This,SpySweeper and X-Cleaner. When downloading the programs, make sure that you are downloading the correct programs, not a counterfeit such as Ad-aware or SpyBot (without Search and Destroy in the name).
6. There is no need for Firewall protection beyond what's included in Windows XP or Vista…on most home computers
Getting away from these rules will only lead to problems. Today I saw one client and talked with another over the phone who was a victim of extortionware.
Extortionware is a virus or Spyware program that comes on your computer by pretending to be a legitimate piece of security software. With names like WinAntivirus and SystemDoctor 2006, you might expect these programs to be helpful. These programs advertise themselves through Internet pop-up ads that pretend to be Windows error messages.
The "error" will often read something like, "Your system is infected with spyware and viruses, click OK to download a free scan."
Once you download and install the program and run the "free scan" the software detects the viruses that weren't there until you downloaded the "security software." It also informs you that the program can remove the viruses and spyware if you pay $40+ for the program.
You can pay the $40 if you want, but the software won't remove the viruses and spyware. In fact they may increase. Don't download and install any program that comes to you.
If you suspect you have a problem visit our links and resources page and download one of our recommended programs.
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