what is the avg “your pc is infected” pop-up scam
The “Your PC Is Infected With 18 Viruses” pop-up scam actively deceives users into believing their computer harbors viruses. Users browsing the internet often encounter a pop-up window claiming their device harbors multiple threats. This scam usually begins on questionable websites, like those offering pirated or adult content. Upon accessing, a pop-up alert resembling AVG’s logo falsely declares the computer’s infection.
The pop-up window may look like a legitimate system scan, claiming to have detected various threats, including viruses, trojans, keyloggers, adware, and scareware. After scanning, users receive an urgent prompt to renew their antivirus subscription or promptly eliminate the detected threats. It’s imperative to debunk these fallacious claims. The fraudulent activity bears no connection to AVG AntiVirus or its creator, AVG Technologies.
By falling for such scams, users can experience fake antivirus, adware, browser hijacker, PUA, trojan, ransomware, or other infections. These infections can lead to serious privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft. It is essential to avoid trusting such scams and to take immediate action to protect your device and personal information.
Mimicking Genuine AVG Security Warnings
The pop-up, designed to look nearly identical to genuine AVG security alerts, asserts that a “Quick Scan” has detected a range of viruses with alarming names like “Win32/Hoax.Renos.HX” or “Trojan Keylogger.” These alerts stress the need for immediate action to address these security threats, purportedly of high or medium risk.
Techniques Used at Each Stage
Initial Redirection Through Malicious Ads or Links
The scam often starts with redirecting victims to suspicious webpages through malicious or deceptive ads. These ads, prevalent on websites hosting pirated or illegal content, entice users with sensationalized headlines about viruses, leading them to the scam page.
The Fake AVG “Your PC Is Infected” Virus Warning
Upon reaching the scam page, users encounter a fake virus alert meticulously crafted to mimic AVG’s branding. This includes logos, scanning animations, and fabricated scan results, all aimed at inducing panic and prompting immediate action.
Redirecting Victims to Purchase AVG
Intermediary platforms guide users until they access AVG’s official sales page. This intricate redirection scheme obscures the scam’s origin, complicating efforts to dismantle it.
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How the Scam Works
Scammers Setup AVG Affiliate Links
Scammers sign up as AVG affiliate marketers to obtain special affiliate links, enabling them to earn commissions on sales. These commissions can be substantial, incentivizing scammers to perpetuate the scam.
Malicious Ads Mimic AVG and Fake Virus Scans
Scammers create fake AVG security scanner pages, meticulously replicating AVG’s branding. These pages initiate phony scans that claim to detect severe threats on the system, urging users to take immediate action.
Users Redirected Through Affiliate Links
Users, upon clicking prompts on the fraudulent scan page, find themselves redirected through intermediary links, ultimately arriving at the authentic AVG website. Scammers profit from affiliate commissions generated by these redirects.
Victims Purchase Unneeded Software
Many victims, alarmed by the fake alerts, end up purchasing AVG software they don’t actually need. Scammers capitalize on fear and urgency to drive sales, earning substantial commissions in the process.
Scammers Profit from Affiliate Commissions
With each completed purchase, scammers receive affiliate commissions from AVG, accruing significant profits through deception and exploitation of the trusted AVG brand.
How to Avoid the Fake AVG Alert Scam
Prevention Tips:
- Use Ad Blockers: Prevent malicious ads from appearing with browser extensions like AdGuard.
- Avoid Pirated Content: Steer clear of piracy sites to minimize exposure to scams.
- Check URLs Carefully: Carefully examine website URLs before inputting data.
- Beware Unsolicited Warnings: Treat unexpected virus alerts with suspicion.
- Keep Security Software Updated: Rely on trusted antivirus programs and keep them updated.
- Browse Safely: Stick to well-known legitimate platforms to reduce scam exposure.
- Monitor Bank Statements: Regularly review account activity to detect fraudulent charges promptly.
How to handle the ‘Your PC is infected’ pop-up scam if you receive it.
If you receive the AVG “Your PC Is Infected” pop-up scam, follow these steps to protect yourself:
- Do not click on the pop-up: Ignore the pop-up and do not download any recommended software, as it may contain malware.
- Run a scan with Malwarebytes: Users navigate intermediary platforms to reach AVG’s official sales page.
- Boot into safe mode: Restart your computer in safe mode to undo any unwanted changes and prevent the scam from running.
- Reset your browsers: Reset your web browser settings to default to remove any unrecognized extensions, apps, or programs.
- Change passwords: If you entered any login information on the infected device, change your passwords on any affected accounts.
- Monitor accounts: Regularly review your bank statements and monitor your accounts for any fraudulent charges or signs of identity theft.
- Revoke app permissions: Check for any unfamiliar apps that now have access to contacts, messages, or other sensitive information and revoke their permissions.
By taking these steps, you can contain the damage and regain control of your device security. Stay vigilant; steer clear of dubious ads or links, particularly those alleging system compromise.
How to report the avg “your pc is infected” pop-up scam to avg
To report the AVG “Your PC Is Infected” pop-up scam to AVG, you should follow these steps:
- Contact AVG Support: Reach out to AVG’s official support team through their website or contact form. Explain the situation and provide details about the scam.
- Provide Screenshots: If possible, attach screenshots of the scam pop-up to your report. This will help AVG’s team identify and investigate the issue.
- Share Information: Include any relevant information about the website or ad that triggered the scam pop-up. This can help AVG track down the source of the scam.
- Follow AVG’s Advice: The AVG “Your PC Is Infected” pop-up scam isn’t from AVG. Their support team might suggest steps like scanning with antivirus or updating virus definitions.
The “Your PC Is Infected” pop-up scam remains unrelated to AVG or its creator, AVG Technologies. Reporting this scam to AVG can help combat the misuse of their brand. AVG’s products, nonetheless, lack direct association with the fraudulent activity.
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Conclusion
Staying vigilant against cybercrime is paramount in safeguarding personal and financial information. Understanding the tactics in scams like the counterfeit AVG “Your PC Is Infected” alert helps users shield themselves from deception.
FAQs
- How do scammers create fake AVG alerts?
Scammers meticulously replicate AVG’s branding and use fabricated scan results to induce panic in users. - Can running a real antivirus scan detect fake alerts?
Yes, trusted antivirus software can identify actual threats on your system without falling for fake alerts. - Why do victims end up purchasing unnecessary software?
Victims are often driven by fear and urgency induced by the fake alerts, leading them to make impulsive purchases. - How do scammers profit from affiliate commissions?
Scammers earn commissions by driving traffic through their affiliate links and completing purchases on legitimate vendor sites. - What steps can users take to avoid falling for such scams in the future?
Users should remain cautious of unsolicited alerts, use ad blockers, and rely on trusted security software to stay protected.
