Beware Antivirus 2009

Antivirus 2009, and its predecessor Antivirus XP 2008, is rogue software.  That is, it claims to be antivirus software, but is in fact malicious software (malware) that will, if installed, cause a great deal of harm to a Windows computer.

The software displays a fake Windows system alert to try to trick you into downloading and installing it.  Or it may install automatically with a fake video codec.

One installed, it will claim to find many different viruses, spyware and other malware on your computer, and will tell you you need to buy the full version of the software to remove these.  Do not... it is all part of the scam.

If you have Antivirus 2009 or Antivirus XP 2008 on your computer, get rid of it immediately.  Seek assistance if necessary.

Read more about it here.

Do you need anitvirus software?  Get Avast.  It is free for home use, and works very well.   I've personally witnessed it preventing Antivirus 2009 from installing.  I highly recommend it.