APCprotect - Misleading Application
- Type: Spyware
- Category: Rogue Programs
- Discovered: 28 December 2009
- Removal tools: Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware, Spyware Doctor
1. Introduction
APCprotect is computer software designed by offenders whose primary mission - convincing user to buy licensed program version. Attempts to persuade user is performed using various scare methods, for this reason APCprotect is also referred as scareware.
One of the commonly applied tactics by misleading programs and also used by APCprotect - convincing user that his computer system has been infected with viruses, suggesting corrupt software as virus removal tool afterwards. APCprotect will scan the computer and generate a report, stating that over 700 viruses has been found, which are factious and can not harm the system.
Chances of user to be convinced of APCprotect authenticity are increased by displaying false Windows Security Center, which is identical in appearance compared to an original. Thus the user may think that APCprotect is recommended by Windows as PC protection tool. The following message is displayed by faked Windows Security Center:
One of the commonly applied tactics by misleading programs and also used by APCprotect - convincing user that his computer system has been infected with viruses, suggesting corrupt software as virus removal tool afterwards. APCprotect will scan the computer and generate a report, stating that over 700 viruses has been found, which are factious and can not harm the system.
Chances of user to be convinced of APCprotect authenticity are increased by displaying false Windows Security Center, which is identical in appearance compared to an original. Thus the user may think that APCprotect is recommended by Windows as PC protection tool. The following message is displayed by faked Windows Security Center:
- Spyware Alert! Your computer is infected with spyware. It could damage your critical files or expose your private data on the Internet. Click here to register your copy of APCprotect and remove spyware threats from your PC.
2. APCprotect removal tools:
- Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware (for the installation guide click here)
- Spyware Doctor (for the installation guide click here)
3. Screenshot:

4. APCprotect files:
C:\Program Files\APCprotect Software\APCprotect\APCprotect.exe5. Hijackthis entries:
O4 - HKCU\..\Run: [APCprotect.exe] C:\Program Files\APCprotect Software\APCprotect\APCprotect.exe