What to Do if I Receive Fraudulent Emails | Antivirus Software

Please note, many fraudulent emails are currently circulating in order to recover your personal and banking data. This scam technique is called "phishing". How to recognize a phishing attempt? What steps should you take, especially with your bank, if you are a victim of phishing?

What is Internet Phishing?

Phishing (or “phishing”)  is an Internet scam technique increasingly used by hackers to steal personal data such as:

• your name and address,
• your contact details (telephone, postal address, etc.),
• your date of birth,
• your bank account number,
• your social security number,
• your Internet connection details for banking or merchant sites ...
• your e-mail username and password, etc. 

To obtain this information, the hackers send a  fraudulent e-mail that appears to come from the Administration  (tax service, health insurance, family allowance fund),  a bank, or a recognized company  (telephone operator, operator of energy, e-commerce site, etc.).

How to Recognize a Fraudulent Email?

The sender's email address includes the name of the organization or company whose identity has been spoofed but often contains anomalies (inconsistencies in the logo, text, spelling errors, etc.). It is one of the first things to look out for to prevent personal data theft.

The content of the email is not personalized (for example, it begins with "dear customer"). The body of the message can contain an image instead of the text to prevent the detection of the mail by the spam filters.

The email invites you in a short time:

• to respond directly to the e-mail by providing personal data,
• to click on a link to complete a form,
• or open an attachment. 

In the typical fraudulent e-mail, the excuses often put forward are the following: an update of your personal data, the verification of a debt, a payment, the imminent deactivation of your account, a reward, or a discount (for example a tax reduction).

In general, the email may contain either a  link that refers to a fraudulent website strongly resembling the official website of the company or organization in question (site URL address, the home page, and logo almost identical), or an attachment (form to fill in, the program to run, etc.).

Either way, you risk giving information to crooks and infecting your computer with a virus that will pick up whatever you type on your keyboard and send it to the crook.

What Are the Precautions to Take After Receiving a Fraudulent Email?

If you have received a suspicious email  :

• do not answer the email,
• Report the fraudulent email and the offense of which you have been the victim to the competent authorities on the Internet platform
• forward it to the address alert@securite.lcl.fr if this email mentions LCL
• do not click on any link contained in the email / do not open the attachments,
• destroy the email,
• update your computer's protection system (antivirus software, firewall, anti-spyware). 

If you have any doubts, call the organization or company in question directly before answering the email.

If you have already replied to a fraudulent email  :

• notify the organization whose identity has been spoofed and change inadvertently transmitted passwords;
• check your bank statements and make sure that no amount has been withdrawn irregularly. If not, contact your bank immediately to object.

What is Computer Virus and Malware? What Are Their Types?

Computer viruses are small programs capable of causing great inconvenience to individuals, companies, and other institutions, after all, they can erase data, capture information, alter or impede the operation of the operating system, and so on. As if that were not enough, there are other similar software, such as  Trojan horses,  worms, hijackers,  spyware, and ransomware. In this text, you will learn a little about how these true "digital plagues" act and learn the basic differences between them.

Before, What is Malware?

It is common for people to call viruses any program for malicious purposes. But, as the first paragraph of the text indicates, there are several types of "digital plagues", viruses being just one category of them.

Currently, a more heated term is used to generalize these programs: the name malware, a combination of the words malicious and software which means "malicious program". Therefore, malware is nothing more than a name created for when we need to refer to malicious software, be it a virus, worm, spyware, etc.

It is important to note that the word "computer" is used in this text in the broadest way, considering the various types of computing devices that exist: desktops, servers, smartphones, tablets, and so on.

It is also worth noting that malware is not limited to a single platform. There are those who think, for example, that there are only digital plagues for Windows, but that is not true. What happens is that the Microsoft family of operating systems is more popular and therefore more targeted. As there is no 100% secure software, malware can also be developed to attack any other platform, after all, there is always someone willing to discover and exploit its deficiencies.

What is a Computer Virus?

Illustrative image of virusesAs you already know, a  virus is a program with malicious purposes, capable of causing inconvenience with the most diverse types of actions: there are viruses that erase or alter users' files, which impair the functioning of the operating system by damaging or altering its functionality, which cause excess traffic on networks, among others.

Viruses, like any other type of malware, can be created in several ways. The first ones were developed in programming languages ​​like C and Assembly. Today, it is possible to even find tools that help in its creation.

How Do Viruses Act?

Viruses receive this name because they have propagation characteristics that resemble real viruses, that is, biological ones: when a virus contaminates a computer, in addition to carrying out the action for which it was programmed, it also tries to spread itself to other machines, just as they do biological viruses in the invading organisms.

In the past, viruses had a very limited range of action: they spread, for example, whenever a contaminated floppy disk was read on the computer. With the emergence of the internet, however, this situation has changed dramatically, for the worse.

This is because, with the internet, viruses can spread much faster and infect a much more significant number of computers. For this, they can explore several means, among them:

• Security flaws ( bugs ): operating systems and other programs are not perfect software and can contain flaws. These, when discovered by people with malicious purposes, can be exploited by viruses, allowing contamination of the system, often without the user noticing;
• E-mails: this is one of the most explored practices. The user receives messages that try to convince him to execute a file attached or present on a link. If the user does it without realizing that he is being deceived, his computer will surely be contaminated;
• Downloads: the user can download a file from a specific website without realizing that it may be infected.

Viruses can also spread through a combination of means. For example, a person in an office can execute an e-mail attachment and thereby contaminate your computer. Then this same virus can try to exploit security holes in other computers on the network to infect them.

Other Types of Malware

As you already know, viruses are not the only malware that exists. The definition of what the pest is or does not depend essentially on its actions and ways of propagation. Here are the most common types:

Trojan Horse (Trojan)

Trojan horses  (or  Trojans ) are a type of malware that allow some way of remote access to the computer after infection. This type of pest can have other features, such as capturing user data to transmit it to another machine.

In order to be able to enter the computer, the Trojan horse usually passes for another program or file. The user can, for example, download it thinking that it is a tool for a specific purpose when, in fact, it is a trojan.

This type of malware is not designed to replicate itself. When this happens, it is usually a joint action with a virus.

Worm

The worms  (or maggots) can be interpreted as a more intelligent type of virus than others. The main difference is in the form of propagation: worms can spread to other computers quickly - either over the internet or via a local network - automatically.

It is explained: in order to act, the virus needs to have the "support" of the user. This occurs, for example, when a person downloads an infected attachment from an email and executes it. Worms, in turn, can infect the computer in a totally discrete way, exploiting flaws in applications or the operating system itself. Of course, a worm can also rely on a user's action to spread, as generally this type of malware is created to infect as many computers as possible, making any means that allow it to be acceptable.

Spyware

Spywares are programs that "spy" on users' activities or capture information about them. To infect a computer, spyware is often "embedded" in the software of questionable origin, often offered as freeware or shareware.

The captured data is later transmitted over the internet. This information can range from user browsing habits to passwords.

Keylogger

Keyloggers are small applications that can be embedded in viruses, spyware, or software of doubtful origin. Its function is to capture everything that is typed by the user. It is one of the ways used to capture passwords.

Hijacker

Hijackers are programs or scripts that "hijack" internet browsers. The main victims were the older versions of Internet Explorer. A hijacker can, for example, change the browser's home page and prevent the user from changing it, display advertisements in new windows, install toolbars, and prevent access to certain websites (pages of antivirus companies, for example). Fortunately, today's browsers have more security features, considerably limiting the action of this type of digital pest.

Rootkit

This is one of the most dangerous types of malware. They can be used for various purposes, such as capturing user data. So far, nothing new. What makes rootkits so threatening is their ability to hinder their detection by antivirus or other security software. In other words, rootkits are able to "camouflage" themselves in the system. For this, rootkit developers can make use of several advanced techniques, such as infiltrating malware into active processes in memory, for example.

In addition to being difficult to detect, rootkits are also difficult to remove. Fortunately, their complexity of development means that they are not very numerous.

Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malware with a bolder "purpose": once active, the pest can block or limit (or allow its creator to do it remotely) access to files, folders, applications, entire storage units or even prevent the use of the operating system. To release these resources, the ransomware usually shows messages demanding payments. It is as if the computer has been hijacked.

To convince the user to pay the required amount, the message may contain threats or blackmail, saying, for example, that important data will be deleted or that private images of the person will be published on the internet if payment is not made.

Users who have their computer infected with ransomware should not give in to pressure and pay, not least because, not infrequently, nothing happens when this is done. Ideally, the person should use security software (endpoint security software) to try to remove the pest or, if unsuccessful, look for someone they can trust to do so.

Do You Know What is Spyware and How Does It Work | Total Security

Spyware is one of the oldest types of malware and continues to be one of the most dangerous. As the name suggests, spyware is a specific type of software that spy on you when you use your computer. It is important to be aware of the possible signs of spyware so that you can recognize the problem and take action. Read on to learn more about what spyware is, what it does, and how you can protect your devices from it.

What is Spyware?

Spyware is a form of malware that infects your devices, monitors your online activity, and collects your personal information without your knowledge or consent. It collects this information in a variety of ways, such as capturing keystrokes, email addresses, web form data, and credit card numbers. Common symptoms include poor system performance, frequently freezing applications, problems with booting your computer, and problems with the Internet connection.

There are different types of spyware such as:

Password Thieves

This type of spyware collects passwords from infected devices. These include passwords stored in web browsers and login information for your computer.

Banking Trojans

Spyware that records credentials from banks and other financial institutions such as brokerage or digital wallets. Trojans detect vulnerabilities in browsers and interfere with web pages and transactions without informing either the user or the organization.

Info Stealers

A type of spyware that scans infected devices for information such as usernames, passwords, browser history, log files, documents, or multimedia files. The software then transfers the information to another server or stores it on your PC where hackers can access it.

Keyloggers

This type of spyware, sometimes called system monitors, logs your computer's activity. It can track keystrokes, sites you visit, search history, and email conversations. He also takes screenshots of your activities frequently. Certain types of keyloggers can also collect information from other connected devices, such as printers.

How Common is Spyware?

Spyware is an extremely common type of cyberattack, although it has declined somewhat in recent years as ransomware and crypto mining have become more prevalent.

One in ten American consumers has experienced a cyber attack on their home computer, although spyware now ranks below ransomware, crypto mining, and other common types of malware.

What Are the Risks?

There are two main risks associated with spyware. The biggest problem is that spyware steals personal information and can put you at risk of identity theft. It can access your browsing history, email accounts and logins for online banking and shopping accounts, and social media accounts. This is more than enough information to steal your identity. If spyware obtains information about your bank or credit card, it can use that information to make purchases in your name or to sell your data to other parties.

In addition, spyware can cause significant damage to your computer and other devices. It can drain your computer's memory and cause it to slow, freeze, crash, or even overheat. Spyware can also alter search results, change your home page and settings, or deliver malicious websites to your browser.

How Spyware Infects Your Computer?

There are many different ways spyware can infect your device. Some of the more common ones are:

Drive-by Downloads

When booting from the disk, a website or pop-up window will automatically download spyware to your device. You may receive a warning stating the name of the software and asking for permission to install it, but in many cases, there is no warning at all.

Download Software

Certain software downloads over the Internet, in particular file sharing applications, can also install spyware on your devices. This is most common with free versions of software that you usually have to buy.

Fake Anti-spyware

In some cases, spyware disguises itself as anti-spyware. These programs assure you that they will detect and remove spyware from your computer. After you run them, you will get a message stating that your computer is clean, when in fact spyware is installed on it. If you try to uninstall the program, the spyware will remain on your computer.

Links or Attachments

Spyware, like most other types of malware, can be sent via a link or email attachment. Never click on an unfamiliar link or attachment or open an email from an unknown sender. This can download and install spyware on your computer. Clicking on malicious links can also infect your device with a worm. These worms are used to spread malicious software across the network to which your device is connected.

Spyware for Mobile Devices

Some types of spyware are designed for mobile devices. This type of spyware infects iPhone and Android devices when you install an application that contains malicious code. Some of these apps are legitimate but have been modified to contain malicious code, others are malicious, and some have fake download links.

What Can I Do if I Find Spyware on My Device?

Spyware can be extremely difficult to detect. Some warning signs include excessive pop-ups, your browser redirecting you spontaneously, and your browser's home page changing. Another common symptom is that your computer is very slow to boot, open programs, or save files.

If you suspect that your device has spyware, it should be removed immediately. You need to purchase a powerful cybersecurity software like total security that has advanced spyware removal capabilities. This type of program removes spyware from your device and restores any changed files or settings.

After removing the spyware, contact your bank, credit card company, and other financial institutions to warn them that your account might be compromised. In these cases, you may need to request a new bank account or credit card number. In some cases, you may also need to contact law enforcement.

How Can I Prevent Spyware?

If you have a device that connects to the Internet, there is always the risk of spyware and other types of malware. However, there are a number of steps you can take to reduce the risk of spyware on your device. Here are some ways to protect your devices from spyware:

Use Anti-spyware

There are many anti-spyware programs on the market that scan your computer and detect any spyware. However, it is important to make sure that you have purchased your anti-spyware program from a reputable internet security provider. Sometimes spyware disguises itself as anti-spyware, so it's important to use a trusted provider. After you have purchased the program, be sure to update it regularly for maximum efficiency.

Set Up Your Browser Security

Many browsers allow you to adjust security settings from low to high. Find out what options are available for your specific browser. Some browsers may even act as a firewall against the installation of cookies and unwanted operations.

Don't Trust Pop-ups

Often, ads and offers that appear in pop-up windows may contain viruses or spyware. Some of these pop-ups claim to have a virus on your computer or claim to be an extension to improve your online experience. Don't click "Agree" or "OK" to close the pop-up window, always click on the red "X" instead.

Internet Security Practice

As with other types of malware, spyware often comes in the form of a link or attachment. Beware of emails from unknown senders and never click on links or attachments if you don't know what they are.

Conclusion

Spyware is on the decline, although it continues to pose a significant threat to businesses. Spyware is especially dangerous because it can get your confidential information. They can then use that data to steal your identity or incur costly charges on your accounts.

When you use a device that connects to the Internet, there is always a risk of malware. However, by taking the necessary precautions, you can protect yourself and your devices from spyware.