Stop Anti-Virus Live Dead in its Tracks

By Ryan Goodrich
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Antivirus Live is a dangerous and destructive application that can install itself on your PC and block access to all your other applications. The software is set up to trick you into believing that all your files are infected when in reality, the program itself is the only malware affecting your machine.

This harmful application then blocks access to all webpages but its own and tells you that you need to pay to disinfect your computer. If you do pay, however, your PC remains infected and scammers make off with your hard-earned cash.

Antivirus Live and other malware applications like it resemble legitimate antivirus software such as the Windows Security Center. The first sign of trouble is usually a pop-up window that resembles a normal windows alert. Then, no matter where you click, Antivirus Live begins downloading and soon starts to block your access to all applications and websites. Some strains of the malware also notify you that your computer is unprotected from security threats whether it actually is.

This type of attack became widespread in 2009. Since then, it has spread via Trojans, social networking, shareware and misleading websites. As soon as you realize that your PC is infected with Antivirus Live, take the steps necessary to remove it. If you wait too long, the virus could weasel its way deep into your hard drive and prevent your PC from booting. Alternatively, the malware could install a spyware application in your internet browser to steal your financial information and, in the worst-case scenario, your identity.

Anti-Virus Live Removal Instructions
Remove Antivirus Live by restarting your PC in safe mode, which you can do by pressing the F8 key just before Windows launches. Then, disable your Proxy server in Internet Explorer or use a non-infected browser to download a free application such as Malwarebytes Anti-Malware or the SpyHunter Spyware Detection Tool.

Your next step is to run a full system scan using the free uninstaller. When the software provides a list of problem files, delete them. This may take a while, and may require two separate uninstaller programs such as SUPERAntiSpyware and Malwarebytes. You can also pay for programs such as BitDefender Antivirus or Kaspersky Anti-Virus for increased protection.

Once you’re finished with the uninstall, reboot your computer in safe mode and bring up the Malwarebytes application. Check for updates and then run a full disk scan again, or scan using a secondary antivirus application. To keep Antivirus Live and other software like it at bay, keep your antivirus software up to date and run system scans regularly.

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Software » Security & Privacy » Best AntiVirus Software Review » Stop Anti-Virus Live Dead in its Tracks