What Is Internet Explorer Antivirus?
Internet Explorer Antivirus, also called Internet Antivirus Pro, Antivirus XP, AntivirusXP 2008, WinDefender 2008 or XP Antivirus, is a fake antivirus program that scans users' computers and gives misleading information about infection in order to dupe them into buying their product.
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Downloading
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Internet Antivirus Pro usually downloads itself through Web browser vulnerabilities.
Logos
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The malware uses a Windows chevron-style logo and security center format to make itself appear legitimate.
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Scareware
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The software proceeds to present a mockup scan of your hard drive and claim infection, and then it takes you to a site where you can buy their software to remove the "infection."
Prevention
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Keep your Windows updates current, especially the malicious software removal tool, and run an antivirus program that has a link scanner. AVG has one in its freeware version.
Removal
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Removal can be tricky if the fake antivirus has turned off your normal security software. Install a new program like MalwareBytes or Microsoft Security Essentials, and this should remove the infection.
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References
- Photo Credit data security image by dinostock from Fotolia.com
