Most of the people often mistake rogue or Fake antivirus  programs to be real antivirus programs. Well, to be honest they actually look like. But, the fact is that they aren’t. They are usually generated by a Trojan that takes control of your computer. Some peddlers of fake anti-virus software actually design the viruses, spyware and malware that their software is supposed to detect. Once your computer is infected by such a Trojan, you keep getting pop up messages saying that your computer is infected by Trojan, virus, malware, etc.Keep your computer updated with the latest anti-virus and anti-spyware software, and be sure to use a good firewall. The following provides tips on how to avoid these malicious programs

If any pop-up that advertises anti-virus,a virus a lert anti-spyware software or, especially a program promising to provide every feature known to mankind appears on your screen, do NOT touch it. Don’t use your mouse to eliminate or scan for viruses, and DON’T use your mouse to close the window. Instead, hit control + alt + delete to view a list of programs currently running. Delete the “rogue” from the list of running programs, and call your computer maker’s phone or online tech support service to learn if you can safely use your computer.

Do not download freeware or shareware unless you know it’s from a reputable source. There exist reliable sources like download.com filehippo.com, cnet.com amongst othersHowever, freeware and shareware programs often come bundled with spyware, adware or fake anti-virus programs.

Avoid questionable websites. Some sites may automatically download malicious software onto your computer.

Use caution when you click links in email or on social networking websites and NEVERopen an email attachment unless you are POSITIVE about the source.