Antivirus 2009 appeared to find 41 viruses on computer. Proceeded to purchase for 3yrs at $79.95 with $1.50 activation fee.
Received email with registration number. Entered email address as prompted by the registration window to activate. Proceeded to scan and viruses were removed. Because I had uninstalled other software, I had to reboot the computer.
After rebooting, I clicked on the Antivirus icon on the desktop only to discover that the shortcut was no longer valid. I looked in Program Files to find where software was installed. Nothing was found.
I did a search on the internet for Antivirus 2009 and found several sites that stated this was in fact a virus. I went back to the website for additional help and more information. I did manage to find a phone number (which was not a 1-800), but located in Westchester, DC. I then did a look up of the various domain names associated with this site and my purchase and discovered that one originated out of Russia.in looking at their privacy policy, it stated the policies were through the Netherlands.
While doing this additional research as to where this company was located, I was on the phone with my bank canceling my credit card. I explained the situation to them and they could see the charge of $80.25 which they put an immediate stop to.
I feel fortunate that my bank was able and willing to stop the transaction and that I did not lose any money in this. Unfortunately, I should have been more aware of this scam and not fallen prey to it.
I am an IT person and am aware of situations such as these, but even with the best of knowledge and expertise, it's still possible to fall for something such as this if you are not giving your full attention to online transactions.
Word to the wise...
Take your time and research.
Do not feel pressured to act immediately.
When in doubt, don't go through with any transaction.
0 comments