By: A1 PC Repair Co-Op
Many people using the internet may become infected by fake anti-virus malware(FAVM), If this happens you may need virus/spyware removal executed by a repair technician. Here is some information that may help you avoid this very annoying, aggravating, and potentially costly malware/virus.
First thing you should always remember is no reputable anti-virus, anti-spyware, or anti-malware utility will perform a visible scan without you initiating it, and they certainly will not force you to buy their software if a virus/trojan/etc is found.
Secondly you need to understand how the fake anti-virus can get into your system. They can get on your system in a number of ways, such as: a hacked website, links or attachments in your email, social networking sites, and of course surfing websites that offer porn, warez, etc.
Usually you will be taken to a website that pops up an alert that may look like a legitimate virus alert, if you see this make sure its from your OWN scanner software, and even then you may want to be skeptical. The other way that can easily be avoided is from attachments or files you download, easiest way to avoid this is never download from a website that isn't reputable, never open attachments from people you don't know, and if a an attachment seems suspicious coming from someone you know then ask them if they sent it before you open it. And of course always run a virus scan if you still aren't sure.
If you do find yourself faced with a fake alert from a website, DO NOT CLICK ANYWHERE on the alert, not even the "X". If you click it you are almost certain to be infected with either a real virus or FAVM. and the popups and alerts will continue until you have the malware removed.
Instead try to close the window from your task bar.. You can do this by finding the Internet Explorer/Firefox/Chrome/Opera/etc window on your task bar and right clicking on it then choosing "Close", until all of your browser windows are closed and then you should restart your computer. If your computer gets locked up or you cant click your start button then you may need to power down from your power button.
Once windows restarts wait and see if you get any more pop-ups/alerts, if you don't then you have likely avoided the worst of it. Then you should do a full system scan using updated anti-virus and anti-malware (see our list of recommended software here). If you do get pop ups or cant install/update anti-virus then you are probably infected and should have a professional remove the FAVM.
And finally, If you need to have a Fake Anti-virus removed then we are offering an awesome discount on our virus removal and optimization service if the only infection is a Fake Anti-Virus.
