Most of these popups are not really infections, but rather are designed to make you call a fake helo desk and give them your credit card number.

Warning signs

• Fake anti-virus spyware programs often generate more "alerts" than the software made by reputable companies.
• You may be bombarded with pop-up alerts, even when you're not online.
• Broken or oddly phrased English.
  
• The message is not addressed to a specified recipient, instead it is addressed to the 'account holder' or uses another generic title.
• If your computer has been infected, it may dramatically slow down. Other signs that your computer has been infected include new desktop icons, new wallpaper or your default homepage is redirected to another site.

Protect yourself

• NEVER click on pop-up alerts! Don't even click on the cross to delete the pop-up alert as this may result in getting more pop-ups. Instead, hit control + alt + delete to view a list of programs currently running and delete the pop-up alert from the list of running programs.
• Use reputable pop-up blocker software to avoid pop-ups on your computer.
• Keep your computer updated with the latest anti-virus and anti-spy ware software. Also use a good firewall.
• NEVER open email attachments unless you can verify the sender and you trust them.
• NEVER click on the links in spam email.
• NEVER rely on the contact details provided in a pop-up message. Instead, find your anti-virus vendor's contact details through an internet search.
• Avoid questionable websites. Some sites may automatically download malicious software on to your computer.

If you get a message and don't know what to do, contact us at info@available-tech.net and let us help.