The Notorious XP Anti-Virus 2007/2008/2009

Though this is old news, I still see this virus flooding computers on a regular basis. The deception involved is very well made, which is why it was such a successful virus.

Do you currently have an icon on your desktop saying "XP Anti Virus 2007" (or 2008, 2009, or even 2010)? Well, you're infected with a very common virus. XP Anti Virus is not trying to help you. It is, in fact, hurting your computer and possibly stealing your information. It is NOT an Anti Virus software. Fear not, though. This is not that difficult to remove.

Before we move on to the removal process, here's a quick side note. Viruses like this come in many forms. I'd love to give out a list of all the 'Fake Anti Virus' software out there, but more forms of it are popping up daily. So, here is an easy way to tell if you have a virus or a real Anti Virus program.

Does your program keep pestering you to buy it? Is it a program you do not remember installing? When the program opens, does it tell you to either "Buy" it or "Continue Unprotected Against Viral Harm"? Well, if you still can't tell whether you have a fake or real program, here's an easy way to tell.

The following names are trusted Anti-Virus brands:
- Trend Micro
- Kaspersky
- Norton (AKA Symantec)
- McAfee
- AVG
- Avast!
- BitDefender
- Webroot
- F-Prot (F-Secure)
- Computer Associates (CA) AntiVirus / AntiSpyware
- NOD32
- Sophos
- Panda

These are simply the most common, but are not the only ones. Check out the list on WikiPedia here (Anti-Virus List) and here (Anti-Spyware Review) if you didn't see your program listed here. Also, this a list of the 'Fake Anti-Virus and Anti-Spyware' software.

Removal process for each of these differs greatly. In the end, you need legitimate software to protect yourself from the threats of the online world. If you haven't already, either download a free Anti-Virus of some sort from the given list, or go to your nearest electronics store and pick something. You can be confident anything in the stores is safe. This is your identity and personal security we're talking about. Neglecting it could cause damage such as losing important files (or pictures, music, videos) or even financial losses because someone knows your account number and password.

Also, if you currently have legitimate software, open it up and make sure it's up to date and that your subscription hasn't expired. If you have something with a year on it (2006, 2007, etc) then make sure it's the current year. If not, you should look into picking up a fully updated application.

I hope you've found this blog helpful. If you'd like, feel free to subscribe or add to your RSS reader. If you have questions, don't hesitate to email me.