A user sees repeated desktop pop-ups stating that their antivirus definitions are out of date-even though the antivirus console shows that the last update succeeded less than an hour ago. Clicking the pop-up opens a web page that offers to download a different "security" product.
Which of the following BEST describes what is occurring on the system?
The system clock is incorrect, so the antivirus believes the signatures are old.
The antivirus subscription has expired and needs renewal.
Rogue security software (FakeAV/scareware) is generating fraudulent alerts.
The antivirus requires a full system scan before it will clear the alert flag.
The contradictory, unsolicited pop-ups are characteristic of rogue security software (also called FakeAV or scareware). These programs impersonate legitimate security tools and use social-engineering tactics-such as false out-of-date warnings-to trick users into installing or paying for useless or malicious software. Genuine definition-update problems would appear only within the installed antivirus interface, not as random web redirects.
Incorrect options:
Antivirus license expired: A valid console would show the license status; it would not redirect to an unrelated product.
Incorrect system clock: A wrong clock can stop updates, but the antivirus GUI would list the error; random web pop-ups would not occur.
Full scan required: Definition currency is independent of scan schedules and would still show the correct update time.
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What is social engineering in the context of cybersecurity?
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How does malware mislead users regarding antivirus status?
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What should a user do if they suspect malware is affecting their antivirus software?