Given the world's ever-increasing environmental concerns, it’s easy to see why malware authors are monetizing via an eco-friendly strategy. Just as the scare tactics of rogue AVs have already taken their toll, yet another ingenious twist appears - this time resorting to a friendlier, “greener” tone.

Green-conscious people, beware! The latest scheme states that, for every fake AV you buy, a donation will be made to an environmental care program. It’s very simple and direct – buy the software and save the planet. Here’s what it looks like: 

 

Unlike other rogue AV campaigns that offer “free trial versions,” this ploy actually requires the user to buy the malware with a credit card, all the while assuring the user that a donation will be made to a green cause. 

 

This social engineering scheme appears to be picking up steam—as stories of fake AV grief from victims posted on the Web continue to pour in. 

 

Security Analyst: Mary Grace Timcang