AntiKeep - Not Virus, But Leads to Privacy Problems
- Type: Spyware
- Category: Rogue Programs
- Discovered: 4 December 2009
- Removal tools: Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware, Spyware Doctor
1. Introduction
AntiKeep - not a virus, but there are cases it is considered that way. A more accurate description would be - misleading application (rogue program), intended to deceive user in order to gain financial benefits.
AntiKeep program uses a number of methods that have been proved as an effective way toward user deception. The whole point is to convince victim that the computer system is unstable, containing viruses. This is achieved by displaying fake Virus Warnings stating that "the computer is infected".
The next stage - AntiKeep advertising and persuading that it is capable to remove alleged problems on the computer. Advertising is implemented through fake Windows Security Center or promotional messages generated by the program itself.
At the time of AntiKeep installation, a large number of files are dropped into system directory with random names, which will be detected and treated as viruses by program scanner, although these files are unable to do any damage to a computer.
AntiKeep program uses a number of methods that have been proved as an effective way toward user deception. The whole point is to convince victim that the computer system is unstable, containing viruses. This is achieved by displaying fake Virus Warnings stating that "the computer is infected".
The next stage - AntiKeep advertising and persuading that it is capable to remove alleged problems on the computer. Advertising is implemented through fake Windows Security Center or promotional messages generated by the program itself.
At the time of AntiKeep installation, a large number of files are dropped into system directory with random names, which will be detected and treated as viruses by program scanner, although these files are unable to do any damage to a computer.
2. AntiKeep removal tools:
- Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware (for the installation guide click here)
- Spyware Doctor (for the installation guide click here)
3. Screenshot:
4. AntiKeep files:
AntiKeep.exe, setup.exe (setup file)5. Hijackthis entries:
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [AntiKeep.exe] C:\Program Files\AntiKeep Software\AntiKeep\AntiKeep.exe