Security 2009: New Name, Same Rogue Program

Rogue antivirus programs may have different names and slightly different behaviors, they share one goal: to persuade computer owners to purchase their software. How do they do this? By convincing them that serious security problems are present in their system. Security 2009 is no different. How can you recognize this and other rogue antivirus programs and keep your computer running normally?

What is Security 2009?

When Security 2009 is installed in your system, it launches into a false scan each time you start your computer. It displays a list of infections that it has found in your system. This serves to affirm Security 2009’s claim that there are issues that need to be fixed, and that this program is the only one that can do it. Just click to install. But wait: these scans and infections are part of an involved ad. As an ad, Security 2009 cannot really scan your computer. The infections are nonexistent. Further, buying the full version of Security 2009 won’t even remove the pop-ups or warning message it causes. Computer owners should avoid this program, and if it becomes installed, take immediate steps to remove it.

Security 2009’s Access to Your System

Security 2009 uses different methods to gain access to your computer. Usually, the free trial version (which is no different from the paid full version) is installed by trojan. Trojans appear to perform valuable functions but really are designed to bring malware into computers. Zlob, for instance, disguises itself as a video codec. When you download or play a video, you get zlob instead. It enters your system and deposits Security 2009. In this way, Security 2009 can spread to your computer without your knowledge. You may unknowingly pick up a Trojan when you visit sites with gaming, warez, file sharing, or adult content, when you download affected videos, or open spam emails. Clicking on ads for Security 2009 may also cause it to install itself into your system.

The purpose of the pop-up ads generated by Security 2009 is to persuade computer owners to pay for and download the software. In order to attempt this, they must be very convincing. They are designed to resemble legitimate antivirus programs. This, and the dire warning messages they create, causes many people to install the software.

Signs of Security 2009 in Your Computer

Filters usually block pop-ups, so noticing an influx can signal the presence of a rogue antivirus program, like Security 2009. These programs typically use pop-ups to install their trial version as well as to convince computer users of security risks. Because these look very much like legitimate warnings, you should always examine them carefully and avoid clicking on any part of the ad.

The pop-up warnings generated by this program have “Security 2009” written in the top left corner. A red shield with a white lightening bolt accompanies the name. This shield both symbolizes protection and mimics the logos of reputable antivirus programs. You will see a list of malware files that Security 2009 claims to have found. Next to each file is a Remove option. Many people see this, think it is from their antivirus program and click Remove. Before you ever remove any files, make sure the scan results come from your program. If not, close the warning with the Task Manager.

Another very common problem associated with rogue antivirus programs is slow computer performance. It will become very noticeable when it takes much longer to start your computer, open programs, load web pages, or switch between browser windows. The reason why this is happening is that Security 2009 takes up so much room and uses so much of your system’s resources to run itself. Your legitimate programs have to divide up what is left, causing overall poor performance.

Other signals of a rogue antivirus program are: hijacked web pages. When trying to get to your homepage, conduct a search, or enter a web address, you may be directed to a Security 2009 website. Here, you will be greeted with news of more infections and urged to buy the full version. This is also the purpose of the system tray icons and desktop shortcuts that this program installs. When owners click on them, they divert to a website selling Security 2009.

If left to run in your system, Security 2009 can create vulnerabilities that allow in additional trojans and malware. More system instability is possible, and this can affect your ability to work, research, shop, bank, or communicate online. To ensure that your computer runs optimally, make sure to remove Security 2009 completely as soon as possible. Keeping your antivirus software up to date, running routine scans, periodically checking your CPU usage, using safe browser tactics will help with this, and knowing the signs of a rogue antivirus program will help you do this.