There was a time when it seemed like computer viruses were the worst thing you could get on your system. Now there is something even worse: Scareware.
Scareware, also known as “rogue software” or “malicious advertising,” attempts to frighten and trick users into downloading and installing programs that appear to be antivirus applications (but are fake).
Scareware can then steal personal information such as credit card numbers, passwords, and account details from unsuspecting victims who thought they were doing the right thing by getting rid of what they believed to be a virus.
The best way to avoid this kind of attack is simple: don’t download anything or agree to any installation prompts unless you are 100% sure of what they are, who they are from, and why you should install them.
What Is Scareware And How Does It Work?
Scareware, as it is sometimes called, is a term used to refer to any scam software. More specifically, these types of fake messages, messages, and software are designed to scare or frighten you into buying their product or service.
They are designed to make you think that your computer is infected with a virus or has some security issue. They do this to get you to download their software or purchase their service to fix the falsely identified problem.
How To Report Scareware To The Authorities?
Once you have fallen victim to Scareware, the best thing to do is file a complaint with relevant authorities. There are several ways in which this can be done depending on the local laws of your country or state. The following list contains the most common ways to report Scareware.
The Federal Bureau Of Investigation (FBI)
The easiest way to file a complaint is by contacting your local FBI branch. They will take down all of the necessary information and pass it on to the relevant authorities. Your details will not be shared with any other third party or anyone else for that matter, and you will not receive any phone calls.
Microsoft
Contacting Microsoft is an excellent way to tell them about Scareware or fake antivirus messages. They will listen to your report and pass it on to the relevant authorities such as the FBI. However, they might contact you if necessary to take your report further.
In some countries, local authorities have taken the lead in reporting scareware or computer virus-related complaints. In such cases, you will need to contact a relevant authority to file a complaint pertinent to your area of residence.
This can be done by going through your state or country’s website and contacting them directly. Other times, they will have a page where you can report such cases. Some of the various state and country websites are listed below for your convenience:
- Australia at https://www.acma.gov.au/theACMA/contact-us
- Ireland at http://www.esb.ie/aboutus/contactus
- The United Kingdom at https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/report_fraud
What Happens Once You’ve Reported The Scareware To Authorities?
If you have reported the Scareware to the authorities, they will take care of it. They will delete it too. This will make your device a lot safer.
For example, if someone sent you a link to Scareware, saying that it’s something else, don’t click on the link. Instead, go to google and search “scareware” to find out what exactly it is.
After you’ve done that, report it to the authorities! That’s the only way to make your device a lot safer. You should tell other people about it, too, since they might have gotten it.
What Are The Other Ways Of Protecting Your Computer From Scareware?
One of the ways that you can protect your computer against Scareware is to create rules on your browser to avoid downloading files from unfamiliar sites. Avoiding unsecured public networks will also help protect your computer. It’s also important to disable or eliminate any software used for remote administration to prevent other people from accessing your computer. There are also programs like Adguard, which block ads and pop-ups, so they don’t lead to harmful sites.
Another way you can protect your computer against Scareware is by installing an antivirus program like SuperAntispyware, Malwarebytes, AVG Internet Security, or ESET Smart Security. You’ll need to update them regularly since they aren’t effective if you don’t. You can also use a web security program like Webroot SecureAnywhere to protect your online activity from malware and viruses.
Conclusion
If a scareware program has infected you, don’t panic. You can report it to authorities, and your local police department will be able to help. Furthermore, there are many ways to protect yourself from being targeted again in the future By installing an antivirus program like SuperAntispyware or Malwarebytes.
For example, using such programs you’ll stay protected against malware, viruses, and Scareware, which targets your browser’s vulnerabilities. Your computer will also be less likely to get infected if you avoid unsecured public networks and don’t allow remote access to programs that can be used for administration.