Antivirus09 is a fraudulent anti-spyware application advertised by fake online scanners. The ads look very similar to system scan results, but are totally fabricated. The intent of these malicious software programs is to make the user believe that their PC is infected with viruses and that security threats exist. This is so that a frightened user will purchase the useless product.
Here is a brief rundown of what happens. As a user is surfing or doing any type of online activity, a message pops up warning of viruses and security threats. At this point, Antivirus09 attempts to entice the user into running a free scan on their computer to detect and remove parasites. If the user complies, the scan results will indicate that infections are so severe that the user must purchase the fully licensed version of the application in order to restore security to their PC.
The fact is, Antivirus09 cannot scan your computer or remove infections. All messages are made up. The scan results are false, and more than likely there are no parasites or viruses on your PC. However, Antivirus09 in itself is a threat, and should be removed immediately. These types of programs can install additional malware on your computer, causing more damage the longer they reside.
Where do these programs originate? Antivirus09 installs through Trojans like Vundo and Zlob. These usually come from visiting undesirable websites. If this program becomes installed on your PC, you will notice a slowing of your computer and that your browser redirects to websites other than the ones you are trying to visit. Applications like this can be very dangerous. In fact, many collect information about your online searches and other activities. They can potentially gain access to your passwords, credit card numbers and other private information.
What should be done if you suspect that Antivirus09 resides on your PC? Remove it immediately. You may think you can remove it manually, but this is not recommended. Manual removal requires killing all processes and deleting registry files. If the wrong file is deleted or some that are related to this application are overlooked, additional damage may be caused to your computer. Unless you are a professional, this is a tricky process.
An authentic anti-spyware tool should be used to remove this rogue. These applications are designed to scan your PC for infections and threats and remove them once detected. This restores security to your computer and private information. One warning – all anti-spyware programs are not created equal! Some are not totally effective. If infections are left to reside on your computer, it is likely that additional malware will be installed.
If you believe that Antivirus09 or some other rogue resides on your PC, click here now for a scan using Spyzooka – the only one that is 100% guaranteed!