Issue 44.10
A few weeks ago, we noted that internet identity thieves and virus creators are trying to convince you that your computer has security or registry problems. If you believe them and give them permission to install or change your computer, you will bypass your anti-virus program and allow viruses, tracking programs or spyware into your computer. These programs often include a page where they try to sell you the solution to the problem you don’t really have – but they are not trying to sell you anything. They just want your credit card info so they can steal it and use it.
The rule of thumb still stands. If you didn’t ask for it, don’t allow it and especially – don’t pay for it.
One of the most damaging and persistent of these is a program designed to look like your anti-virus or internet security program. It may be called AntiVirus 2010 or 2011 or Virus Killer 2010 or something similar. If you see this, just turn off your computer without even trying to close it. After your restart your computer, run your anti-virus full system scan before doing anything else. If you are not already infected and if you have a good anti-virus program, this should clear the system. If it doesn’t, call your computer professional right away. The longer these type of programs are active in your system the more damage they do until the computer won’t even start.
There are a few updates you should be sure to allow. If you know it is a program you use and you are sure (look carefully) that the update is for the same program, you are usually safe in allowing it to continue. Some programs in this group include Java, Adobe, Microsoft, Mozilla, Google, Yahoo and MSN.
Your anti-virus is very important to keep updated. The best way is to open the program regularly and click on the update button. That way you are sure the updates are actually from the company. Most updates come automatically, but I still check manually once or twice a week. Many internet security programs are doing version updates right now as they continue dealing with new threats. These are also important to keep your system safe. Just be sure they are actually from the company whose software your are actually using.
For example, I have mentioned AVG Anti-Virus (along with Kaspersky and NOD32) because they have a free version that is quite effective as well as a more intensive internet security program you pay for. They have recently released their version 2011 to deal with some of the new threats. If you are using AVG, you need this update soon. You can get it by opening your program and asking for the update or, if that option isn’t available on your version, you can go the website free.avg.com and download the new software which should automatically update your old version.
If in doubt, call a computer professional and describe what you are seeing. Stay safe – and, as always, make sure you have a backup of anything important.
Shaun McCausland has been in the computer industry for 29 years (locally with Musicomp & Bits ‘N’ Bytes) and currently does in-home and on-site computer consultation, service, training and repair. If you have questions, you can reach him at 668-7118.