Fake antivirus software offers SMS payment option

Fake antivirus scareware has emerged that accepts payment via SMS, according to antivirus firm CyberDefender.

A new type of scareware lets users paying for fake antivirus software before downloading it, with the option of paying by SMS. Screenshot: CyberDefender

Typical rogue security programs infect systems first, then display pop-ups warning that the computer is infected, and request payment to clean it up. The new programs are seemingly more genteel, asking for the money before the program is installed and infects the system, said Achal Khetarpal, threat research director at CyberDefender. Of course, a payment does nothing to 'fix' a system and means criminals now have people's money and possibly their credit-card information.

When a potential victim happens upon a website hosting the malware, a dialog box pops up that looks very much like an installer window for a legitimate antivirus product, according to screenshots from CyberDefender. It says 'Welcome to' and names a popular antivirus software, before suggesting the user closes other applications. If the victim falls for the ruse, the software then displays a message that says "To complete installation, you must go through activation" and offers several ways to pay, including SMS (Short Message Service), WebMoney and credit card.

For more on this ZDNet UK-selected story, see New fake antivirus accepts SMS payments on CNET News.