Learn to Avoid Fake Security Software

Here's what happens: A pop-up window warns you of newly discovered security threats on your computer -- and offers to help you remove them.

The window looks like an honest-to-goodness security program (if not an alert from Windows proper), and all it wants to do is scan your PC or "block the attack" -- so you go ahead and click.

Guess what: You've been had. That genuine-looking pop-up was a fake, and by clicking it you opened the door to malware infections and, potentially, stolen personal info.

Fortunately, it's not hard to spot fake security programs -- you just have to know what to look for.

For one thing, if you already have a security program installed on your PC -- say, Norton 360 -- and the pop-up has a generic name like Spyware Defense 2009, you know it's a fake. Only the Norton product should be issuing alerts.

Here are other telltale signs, according to Download Squad:

Alerts that just don't belong - Windows will tell you if you're not running antivirus software or the definitions are out of date, but it won't tell you that an infection has been found. Windows Defender will pop up alerts, but not Windows itself or the Windows Security Center. Alerts that claim Windows has found infected files are pulling your leg.
Poor grammar - Windows has its weak points, but real system messages are usually very well written and clear. Alerts from rogue apps don't have the same attention to detail.

Don't fall for this. Treat all pop-up security alerts with suspicion. Keep your browser and operating system up to date, and choose a reliable, top-rated security program for your PC.

Read the full story for more information, then share it with friends and co-workers. Knowledge is half the battle in staying safe online.