Menu

  • Alerts
  • Incidents
  • News
  • APTs
  • Cyber Decoded
  • Cyber Hygiene
  • Cyber Review
  • Cyber Tips
  • Definitions
  • Malware
  • Threat Actors
  • Tutorials

Useful Tools

  • Password generator
  • Report an incident
  • Report to authorities
No Result
View All Result
CTF Hack Havoc
CyberMaterial
  • Education
    • Cyber Decoded
    • Definitions
  • Information
    • Alerts
    • Incidents
    • News
  • Insights
    • Cyber Hygiene
    • Cyber Review
    • Tips
    • Tutorials
  • Support
    • Contact Us
    • Report an incident
  • About
    • About Us
    • Advertise with us
Get Help
Hall of Hacks
  • Education
    • Cyber Decoded
    • Definitions
  • Information
    • Alerts
    • Incidents
    • News
  • Insights
    • Cyber Hygiene
    • Cyber Review
    • Tips
    • Tutorials
  • Support
    • Contact Us
    • Report an incident
  • About
    • About Us
    • Advertise with us
Get Help
No Result
View All Result
Hall of Hacks
CyberMaterial
No Result
View All Result
Home Definition

What is a Scareware? (Malware)

June 12, 2023
Reading Time: 2 mins read
in Definition, Malware
What is a Scareware? (Malware)

Scareware is malicious software that tricks computer users into visiting malware-infested websites. Also known as deception software, rogue scanner software or fraudware, scareware may come in the form of pop-ups.

The messages often appear authentic, mimicking legitimate security software or operating system alerts, and may include intimidating language or warnings about data loss, system damage, or privacy breaches.

They are so cleverly done that users are frightened into paying a fee to quickly purchase software that will fix the so-called problem. What they end up downloading, however, is fake antivirus software that is actually malware intended to steal the victim’s personal data.

Here are some key characteristics of scareware:

  1. Deceptive Pop-up Messages: Scareware often presents itself through intrusive pop-up messages that suddenly appear on the user’s screen while browsing the internet or using their computer.

  2. False Security Alerts: The messages generated by scareware falsely claim that the user’s computer is infected with viruses, spyware, or other malicious software. They may display exaggerated or fabricated threat levels to intensify the sense of urgency.

  3. Persuasive Tactics: Scareware utilizes persuasive tactics to convince users to take immediate action. This can involve urging them to purchase a fake antivirus or security software, providing a link to a malicious website, or encouraging them to call a fraudulent tech support number.

  4. Malicious Downloads or Payments: Victims who fall for scareware tactics may end up downloading and installing malicious software disguised as security software. They may also make payments for useless or non-existent products or services, exposing their financial information to the attackers.

Scareware typically targets less tech-savvy users who may not be familiar with typical cybersecurity practices or the signs of a scam. It preys on their fear of malware infections and their desire to protect their computers and personal information.

Tags: AntivirusDefinitionsMalwaremalware-definitionsMobile Device SecurityNonprofitsNonprofits DefinitionsRansomwareRansomware DefinitionsScarewareSeniorsSeniors Definitionsvirus
ADVERTISEMENT

Related Posts

Iranian Phishing Campaign (Scam) – Malware

Iranian Phishing Campaign (Scam) – Malware

March 2, 2025
Fake WalletConnect (Infostealer) – Malware

Fake WalletConnect (Infostealer) – Malware

March 2, 2025
SilentSelfie (Infostealer) – Malware

SilentSelfie (Infostealer) – Malware

March 2, 2025
Sniper Dz (Scam) – Malware

Sniper Dz (Scam) – Malware

March 2, 2025
TikTok Malware Scam (Trojan) – Malware

TikTok Malware Scam (Trojan) – Malware

March 2, 2025
Zombinder (Exploit Kit) – Malware

Zombinder (Exploit Kit) – Malware

March 2, 2025

Latest Alerts

W3LL Phishing Kit Steals Microsoft Logins

Windows 10 Intel BitLocker Bug Fixed

Zoom Phishing Attack Steals Corporate Logins

Mozilla Urgent Firefox Patch Fixes RCE Flaws

ModiLoader Malware Targets Windows Users

Glibc Flaw Gives Linux Root Access Risk

Subscribe to our newsletter

    Latest Incidents

    Belgian mobile customers’ data leaked

    Promises2Kids Data Breach Hits Foster Youth

    RVTools Compromised With a Trojanized Installer

    Massive DDoS Hits Poland’s Civic Platform

    Arla Plant Cyberattack Halts Operations

    Georgia’s Harbin Clinic Hit by Data Breach

    CyberMaterial Logo
    • About Us
    • Contact Us
    • Jobs
    • Legal and Privacy Policy
    • Site Map

    © 2025 | CyberMaterial | All rights reserved

    Welcome Back!

    Login to your account below

    Forgotten Password?

    Retrieve your password

    Please enter your username or email address to reset your password.

    Log In

    Add New Playlist

    No Result
    View All Result
    • Alerts
    • Incidents
    • News
    • Cyber Decoded
    • Cyber Hygiene
    • Cyber Review
    • Definitions
    • Malware
    • Cyber Tips
    • Tutorials
    • Advanced Persistent Threats
    • Threat Actors
    • Report an incident
    • Password Generator
    • About Us
    • Contact Us
    • Advertise with us

    Copyright © 2025 CyberMaterial