Scammers Promoting Rogue Anti-Virus Through Phone Calls

Malware purveyors seem to be increasing their use of telephones for malicious purposes, which resulted in increased reports pouring in from the UK of cold phone calls to trick people into downloading fake anti-virus products.

In past few weeks, some people got dire warnings that their computer systems are infected with malware that can be eliminated with only some clicks of the mouse. On July 2, 2010, antivirus vendor ESET UK, mentioning the increase in such calls, advised Internet users to remain cautious.

While the pitches differ, they usually involve a person who sounds as a professional calling from some telephone center. He warns the user on the other end that malware has been discovered on his system which is now infecting other PCs.

For skeptical users, the person may ask to open Windows event viewer for proof of infection. Ultimately, the user is asked to provide the caller remote access to his computer through logmein123.com or some other service. Thus, the scammers will implant fake anti-virus software as well as other malware which is too difficult to get rid of.

The scammers are fearless when potential victims tell a stranger calling them from an anonymous place that they don't need their help.

Just few days back, people living in Bridport (England) got a cold call from a person claiming to be from some reputed company like Microsoft, Symantec or Norton. The receivers were informed that their computer has been infected by a nasty virus and that it is now sending that virus to others through the Internet. They are told that it can be easily removed and thus, they are tricked into allowing the scammers remote access to their PCs. They are then bombarded with several technical jargon as well as complex procedures.

Then the receivers are asked for the payment details through a card and the victim is asked for around £180 to eliminate the virus.

According to security experts, this kind of scam has been prevailing for more than 12 months, but they know very little about those behind the calls, except the domain names - go4saling.com, supportonclick.com and metupport.com.

Related article: Scammers Exploit Tax System Resulting in ID Theft

» SPAMfighter News - 7/14/2010