IE Security: Not the Security You Were Hoping For

Pop-ups, slow computers, a hijacked homepage – what could be going on with your computer? These signs point to the presence of a rogue antivirus program. There are a variety of these programs, all of which share the goal of persuading computer users to buy their expensive software. IE Security is one of these programs that it pays to be able to recognize and avoid.

What is IE Security?

IE Security is a rogue antivirus program that behaves very much like others in this class. It employs the use of pop-up ads and false security scans in order to persuade users to purchase its full version. IE Security modifies your settings so it is able to launch automatically when you start a new Windows session. It will then “scan” your computer and list several infections it has found. There are two things to remember about these scans. One, they are not scans at all. They are elaborate ads, nothing more. And two, the infections found do not exist. IE Security creates files like SpyBlast, Wonderland, Whazit, and XupiterToolbarLoader.cab, that it indicates are threats. Presenting itself as an official Microsoft tool for Vista and XP, IE Security warns that the only way to remove these threats is to purchase the full version. This program is not affiliated with Microsoft and will not protect your computer. IE Security is virtually identical to Win Defender.

Is IE Security On My Computer?

It is important that you recognize the signs that IE Security may be installed in your system so you can avoid it and remove it as soon as possible. Rogue antivirus programs use pop-ups extensively, so knowing rogue from legitimate warnings will help keep your computer safe. As mentioned, IE Security runs a false scan and lists threats. What makes this program slightly different, and more convincing, than other rogue antivirus programs is the similarity to legitimate programs. The scan looks like that of a legitimate antivirus program, and it can be very easy to mistake it for the antivirus software you actually have in your system. Both IE Security and Win Defender have a wall-like logo that mimics that of legitimate program Windows Defender. Computer users may very well glance at that, see the trusted program’s logo, and then click on the ad. The name itself is so simple and direct that it seems trustworthy.

A feature that IE Security has that is different than some other rogue antivirus programs is the links to reputable software sites. When the scan results list infections, the computer user can click on them. They are then directed to one of a few well-known, reputable antivirus software sites where they can read a real description of this particular malware. This lends enormous credibility to IE Security’s claims. This program goes to great lengths to appear legitimate, but remember that these threats are nonexistent, as is the protection of IE Security.

If a rogue antivirus program like IE Security is installed on your computer, you will notice several other signs. One that is as noticeable as the pop-ups is the hijacked browser settings. Your homepage may be taken over by one of IE Security’s websites which urges you to buy its full version. When you attempt to load a web page or conduct a search, you may be redirected to one of these sites. IE Security can also install new shortcuts on your desktop or icons in your system tray.

Another very noticeable indication that IE Security is in your system is an overall slower performance. Booting your computer, opening programs, loading web pages, and other tasks take much longer. This is because IE Security takes up precious resources in order to operate itself. It also helps IE Security create the appearance of security threats in your computer.

How Did IE Security Access My System?

After being confronted with various authentic-looking warnings, many users opt to purchase IE Security. This allows the full version to install itself, but the user will continue to notice pop-ups, warnings, slow functioning, and other issues. In fact, the full version is only different from the “trial version” in one respect: users pay for its useless “protection.”

If you didn’t choose to buy IE Security from one of their websites or by clicking on one of their myriad online ads, how did this program enter your computer? The most common way is through trojans found at questionable sites (including adult, gaming, warez, and file-sharing sites), from spam emails and attachments, or when you opt to download a free video. Zlob and Vundo are two of the more common trojans associated with IE Security. They gain access to your system and carry malware, including IE Security, in with them.

You may ask, “Should I remove IE Security?” And the answer is YES. When you notice signs like the ones listed above, you should take immediate steps to remove this program from your computer. It is diverting necessary resources to its own use, contributes to instability, and can open a door though which more trojans can enter. It is important to remove IE Security in order to keep your system operating smoothly.