Hi, I'm Molly Wood from CNET.com, here with a tip on making sure you�re really secure when
you�re downloading security software. Our Download.com team got a reader email from
Gergigbear, asking, "How do you tell a rogue anti virus site from the good sites?"
You might have heard of the threat posed by rogue antivirus vendors. Maybe you�ve seen a
message telling you that your computer is infected and you need to buy some this software
right now to fix it. Or, worse, scammers can compromise legitimate antivirus Websites and
redirect you to a bogus site. Usually, the scammers harvest your credit card information and
whatever you pay for the fake software, and then never deliver any software. But some fake
antivirus software can actually CONTAIN viruses or worms. So, you need to be careful. Here are
some tips from our Download.com editors on how to avoid getting scammed.
First tip: it�s all about the source: If you�ve discovered the site from a pop-up on your computer
screen or in your system tray, all signs point to rogue. This is a well-known scare tactic that
these illegitimate companies use to herd you to their sites. Instead, search for security software
on CNET Download.com or other reputable sites. You�ll get legitimate recommendations, and
also ratings and editors� reviews.
Next: take a good hard look at the site! Legitimate antispyware companies spend a lot of
money to make their Websites look good. If you see spelling errors or bad graphics, steer clear.
Of course, a bogus �company� could also make a nice site, which is why�
Third tip: Use a link scanning app like McAfee Site Advisor or link LinkScanner Lite (which is
included in AVG�s free antivirus app). Also, both Firefox and Internet Explorer use scanning and
rating toolbars that warn you with yellow or red buttons in the browser window if the site
seems unsafe.
Visit Download.com for a lot more tips on avoiding unsafe sites, and you can find our top
security picks at the link on the screen.
It�s a dangerous world out there, and I hope this will help you stay a little bit safer. For
CNET.com, I'm Molly Wood, and you�re welcome.
