Stay Safe
Help I think my computer is infected by scammers viruses!
Its VERY common where you receive a fake job response that links to a website, that this website will attempt to install whats known as malware on your computer. Malware basically means software that is designed to compromise your computer. THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS THREAT. Common uses for malware will involve gaining complete access and control over your computer, typically your computer will then be used for spam, fraud, criminal, and most worryingly terrorist purposes. It allows the scammer to masquerade on the Internet as you. Its also increasingly common for these scammers to install whats known as a keylogger – this records everything you type; SSN, Credit Card Numbers, Bank Logins, Web Passwords and so on.
The fake job site may attempt to utilize a web browser security flaw to install its malware without your knowledge. This is most common on Windows PC’s, and typically effects Internet Explorer users.
The scammers may also request that you download a program, sometimes a very basic IQ test from their sites. The craigslist scammers will use whats known as bundling to attach their viruses to legitimate programmes. While you may be installing an instant messenger recommended by the fake job site, you are actually installing backdoor access for the scammers.
If you are not worried by this yet – perhaps the knowledge that bank accounts with $10,000 funds and full online access change hands for as little as $100 among hacker communities. Its incredibly difficult and frustrating to prove that you were not in control of your computer when your funds were sent overseas.
You may think that your regular anti virus protects you – sadly most of the biggest providers are openly tested against by these scammers. So what do I recommend??
I recommend that you check your computer immediately if you have had any exposure to fake jobs posters and their sites.
I use SpyWare Nuker which is available as a free download, and will allow you to see very quickly if your computer is compromised. I recommend the following free scanners which are specifically designed to detect this type of threat (and detected far more than my copy of Norton!)
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