Spyware - Rogue Anti-spyware Programs

Rogue Anti-spyware Programs

See also: List of fake anti-spyware programs and Rogue software

Malicious programmers have released a large number of rogue (fake) anti-spyware programs, and widely distributed Web banner ads can warn users that their computers have been infected with spyware, directing them to purchase programs which do not actually remove spyware—or else, may add more spyware of their own.

The recent proliferation of fake or spoofed antivirus products that bill themselves as antispyware can be troublesome. Users may receive popups prompting them to install them to protect their computer, when it will in fact add spyware. This software is called rogue software. It is recommended that users do not install any freeware claiming to be anti-spyware unless it is verified to be legitimate. Some known offenders include:

  • AntiVirus 360
  • Antivirus 2009
  • AntiVirus Gold
  • ContraVirus
  • MacSweeper
  • Pest Trap
  • PSGuard
  • Spy Wiper
  • Spydawn
  • Spylocked
  • Spysheriff
  • SpyShredder
  • Spyware Quake
  • SpywareStrike
  • UltimateCleaner
  • WinAntiVirus Pro 2006
  • Windows Police Pro
  • WinFixer
  • WorldAntiSpy
  • XP Security

Fake antivirus products constitute 15 percent of all malware.

On January 26, 2006, Microsoft and the Washington state attorney general filed suit against Secure Computer for its Spyware Cleaner product.

Read more about this topic:  Spyware

Famous quotes containing the words rogue and/or programs:

    “It is said that a rogue does not look you in the face, neither does an honest man look at you as if he had his reputation to establish.”
    —Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)

    “[The Republicans] offer ... a detailed agenda for national renewal.... [On] reducing illegitimacy ... the state will use ... funds for programs to reduce out-of-wedlock pregnancies, to promote adoption, to establish and operate children’s group homes, to establish and operate residential group homes for unwed mothers, or for any purpose the state deems appropriate. None of the taxpayer funds may be used for abortion services or abortion counseling.”
    —Newt Gingrich (b. 1943)