What is Fraudware

Fraudware is a terrible, deceitful software program. It will invade your PC and wreak havoc. This software will falsely claim that your PC has been infected with spyware or viruses. Why is this done in the first place? The creators of fraudware have a goal in mind. When you falsely believe that your computer is infected, you will be more likely to purchase their useless software. Some of the symptoms of fraudware are that your desktop background image may be changed or may be a different color. But most confusing of all is that pop-up windows will appear that look exactly like the real Windows System Security error messages! Let’s assume for a moment that you shut down your PC to try and fix the problem. When you boot it up again, look at your desktop. You may have “official” looking icons there that you’ve probably never seen before! Also, a new program may open up every time you turn on your PC. It will start “scanning” your computer and lying to you about how many terrible viruses and spyware programs it has found. Then you will be prompted to click on an icon that will take you to their website. This is done to get you to buy their absolutely useless software program. They assume you will do this because of all the viruses and spyware you have that you must want to get rid of. Internet Explorer will sometimes open up by itself and go to another website that also tells you your PC is infected.

Unfortunately, Windows programs that were actually created to help you fight these problems often get disabled. Task Manager and your firewalls are rendered useless at this point. And not to be the bearer of bad news, but there really is not much you can do about it! You won’t be able to remove the fraudware from the add/remove programs area, and you can’t stop them even with Task Manager and your firewalls fully operational. Anti-viruses may be helpful. But even the best anti-virus and anti-spyware software programs may still not even detect the presence of fraudware. Let alone be able to remove it. The best solution you have is to bring an infected PC to a professional who can properly work on it. As dangerous and deceitful as fraudware is, you may be able to insulate yourself from an attack. Make sure emails are not hidden time bombs waiting to go off. Only open email that you know are safe. Purchase the best anti-virus/anti-spyware software available, and keep it updated! These are some invaluable tips that I hope will help you in your battle against a malicious fraudware attack.