Scareware is the latest buzz-word for fake antispyware or malware that pretends to be helpful, but is in fact harmful.

For instance, you’re surfing along, minding your own business when WHAM, you get a message that says something like: “Warning! Your computer is infected with spyware or a virus. Download our product now to fix it.” – Whatever you do, DON’T download anything like this: it’s a fake designed to infect your computer.

Depending on the design of the malware, it can be spyware designed to steal valuable information like credit card numbers, bank accounts, social security numbers. Or it can be a malicious virus simply out to corrupt your system.

Eitherway, these “helpful” spyware attacks are anything but helpful and should be avoided at all costs. Here are some of the more popular ones to look out for: Antivirus’09, Personal Antivirus, WinDefender 2008, WinPC Antivirus, RapidAntivirus, P Antispyware 09, DriveCleaner, WinAntivirus, and XP Antivirus.

So make sure your anti-spyware software is up-to-date with the latest protection. Or if you do get a warning message, make sure it’s from YOUR antispyware software, and not some scareware application trying to steal your money or time.