Fake anti-virus software that infect PC’s with malicious code are a growing threat, according to a study by Google.

Its analysis of 240m web pages over 13 months showed that fake anti-virus programs accounted for 15% of all malicious software.

Scammers trick people into downloading programs by convincing them that their PC is infected with a virus. Once installed, the software may steal data or force people to make a payment to register the fake product.

“Surprisingly, many users fall victim to these attacks and pay to register the fake anti-virus software,” the study said. “To add insult to injury, Fake anti-viruses often are bundled with other malware, which remains on a victim’s computer regardless of whether a payment is made.”

More than half of the fake software was delivered via adverts, said Google.

Source: BBC Tech News