Fake Antivirus Programs Now Offering 'Live Support'

Simply saying that rogue antivirus software is becoming more sophisticated is one thing, but a new fake antivirus program called "Live PC Care" has made one necessary change to dupe innocent users: offering live technical support for bogus software.

According to Symantec researchers, once users have installed the program, they are met with a screen that informs them of numerous computer infections, several kinds of malware, and the like. This tactic of duping users is nothing new; what is new, however, is the fact that the free trial version of Live PC Care comes with a large yellow "online support" button.

The button initiates an actual conversation with an online representative that will answer any questions about the product via instant messaging.

Live Support Not an Automated Script

Symantec believes that the supposed "agent" is no automated script, but rather a real person. Naturally, the reason for the addition is to add an "air of legitimacy" to the program. As Marc Fossi, manager of development with Symantec Security Response joked, "Obviously if they've got live tech support, it must be real." (Source: yahoo.com)

Surprisingly, this is not the first time tech support has been offered alongside a fake security product. A company called Innovative Marketing also attempted to reassure victims that they were investing in a legitimate product through live support.

Remaining Steadfast When Given Choice

Seemingly, the only positive news to come out of this report is the fact that people are remaining steadfast in not shelling out their money voluntarily. The support staff tries to get unsuspecting users to pay between $30 and $100 for the product, but when the choice is theirs, most tend to decline the offer. (Source: com.au)

Fake Antivirus Installs on The Up

Symantec reported that 43 million rogue antivirus installation attempts were known to have existed between July 2008 and July 2009. With sophisticated additions like live support, these programs do not look to be going away anytime soon.