Scareware is a scam that shows fake alerts, for example that your computer is infected, to convince you to download a program or pay for a supposed fix. The screen imitates antivirus or Windows warnings, and the program it offers is usually malware or a worthless charge.
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fake antivirus, rogueware, rogue security software, fake virus alert
Related terms
Malware
Malware is any program designed to damage a device, steal information or take control of a system without the owner's permission. The word is short for malicious software, and it includes viruses, trojans, ransomware, spyware, worms and keyloggers, which differ in how they get in and what they do once inside.
Computer virus
A computer virus is a type of malware that attaches itself to a legitimate file or program and copies itself to other files when someone opens it. Like a biological virus, it needs a host to spread, and it can delete data, damage the system or open the door to other threats.
Trojan
A trojan is a malicious program that poses as something useful or harmless, such as an installer, an invoice or an update, so the user runs it. Once inside, it opens the way for other malware or for remote control of the computer.
Rootkit
A rootkit is a set of tools that hides in the deepest layers of the operating system to conceal other malware and keep the attacker's access. It's hard to detect with conventional antivirus.
RAT (remote access trojan)
A RAT (remote access trojan) is a trojan that gives the attacker full remote control of the infected computer, from the screen and camera to files and programs. It usually arrives disguised as a legitimate document or installer.
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