An increasing trend in malware is the “fake anti-virus” program.  There are hundreds of names for these programs, but the story is always the same.  You are essentially locked out of your computer by a program that promises to help you remove….. itself.  Unsuspecting PC users are forced to fork over $50 or more to simply regain control of their computer.

Possibly the most frustrating part of these malware programs is that there are tools out there to help you remove them IF you could gain enough control of your PC to install and run them.  Unfortunately, you have no control.  Whether you are tricked by one of these “fake anti-virus programs” or your real anti-virus program simply lets one get by, you are going to need some help.  Luckily, the folks at Avast have developed a FREE Rescue CD that can be used to scan your system and remove these pesky programs with ease. (more…)