Fake Antivirus Websites Spreading Malware to Windows & Android

A Brief Introduction to Fake Antivirus Websites

Fake antivirus websites are fake websites that pretend to be legitimate antivirus software or services. These websites employ sophisticated tactics, disguised as legitimate antivirus companies, to trick users into downloading malware.

In addition, such malicious websites use a number of advanced techniques to ensure their visibility and ranking in engine results, making them particularly vulnerable to unsuspecting access by users. Visiting fake antivirus websites may lead to many adverse consequences, such as leakage of personal information and implantation of Trojans, viruses, and other malware into the device.

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Fake Antivirus Websites Examples

Lately, researchers at Trellix reported in an article that they discovered a number of fake antivirus websites posing as legitimate antivirus solutions. Not only do these websites spread malware to Windows devices, but they also infiltrate Android devices.

The spread of malware may steal a large amount of sensitive data, including text messages, call logs, videos, photos, screenshots, etc. Additionally, they may delete or install apps, mine cryptocurrency, track real-time location, and more. This leaves your computer and Android device completely exposed.

Here are the sites hosting malware:

• avast-securedownload.com (Avast.apk)
• bitdefender-app.com (setup-win-x86-x64.exe.zip)
• malwarebytes.pro (MBSetup.rar)

After visiting these fake antivirus websites and downloading fake antivirus software, your device may be deployed with different malware and ask for various sensitive permissions. Then, they will collect your device data and send it to their remote servers.

How to Protect Your Computer Against Fake Antivirus

Faced with fake antivirus websites and the malware they bring, you should always be vigilant and follow some precautions to reduce the risk of your computer or phone getting infected. Here are some useful tips.

• Keep your software or system up to date: Updating your software and operating system can patch known security vulnerabilities and reduce the chances of your device being hacked.
• Always download software from official websites: Always download software from official websites rather than from unknown sources. You can Google some ways to identify official websites.
• Be wary of unusual security warning pop-ups: Fake antivirus software may frequently pop up windows to remind you that there is a virus in your computer that needs urgent treatment.
• Be cautious with email links and attachments: Do not click on links or download attachments in emails casually, as they may be fake antivirus websites or malware.
• Use Windows’ built-in antivirus software: Microsoft Defender is a powerful antivirus tool built into Windows. It can handle basic antivirus and malware attacks on your computer.
• Back up your files: Malware can cause your data to be lost. Backing up your files to an external hard drive or cloud service can help reduce the risk of file loss. Alternatively, you can use professional and reliable data backup software, MiniTool ShadowMaker, to safeguard your files on Windows.

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Bottom Line

In a word, some fake antivirus websites Windows/Android are trying to spread malware and attack your computer or Android devices. You need to be wary of them and take some precautions. Also, you can double-check the software you download and install on your device or use Windows Defender to confirm that your system is safe.