Virus alert
- Have you ever been offered a free virus alert program? If so, describe the offer and whether you accepted the offer.
Yes, I accepted the offer since it looked objective.It came as a pop up on the computer, suggesting suitable photograph editing software. The alert program encrypted as photograph editing software quickly took control of the machine by one click on the alert program and installation. I was easily duped since I was in the photography industry hence immediately enticed without a second thought.
- Almost all legitimate antivirus software manufacturers issue new virus alerts. Do you think these alerts are motivated by greed or by good consumer service? Why or why not?
This is motivated by greed and taking advantage of fear among consumers. The antivirus manufacturers use the scam virus detection software to charge innocent and paranoid customers’ unwarranted charges.
- Is this an ethical issue for antivirus software manufacturers? If so, create some ethical guidelines for antivirus software manufacturers to follow when issuing virus alerts.
Yes, it is an ethical issue, and there are stipulated principles for ethically issuing virus alerts. The alert needs to be raised from the formal company channel, not from any worker. Nature and scope of the alert mechanism, virus alerts need to be dangerous. The company should act in good faith to avert the virus alert.
- What can users do to protect themselves against antivirus scams and against unethical manufacturers of antivirus programs? Be specific and defend your suggestions.
The viruses are mostly installed by the consumers from the unethical antivirus program manufacturers during installation. Users need to read the small print and avoid rushing through installations to help protect themselves against fraudulent manufacturers. The unethical antivirus programs spread what they are expected to protect users against to help make more money.