Question

Which of the following is an accurate definition of scareware?

A) It is a kind of anti-spam process which relies on the human desire to use malware.
B) It is a kind of social engineering used to persuade people that a computer is infected when it is not.
C) It is a type of software that prevents users from downloading malware by displaying warnings.
D) It is software which provides a shield against spam and mirrors it back into the network.

Answer 1

Scareware is a type of malicious software that tricks users into believing their computer is infected with viruses or other malware, in order to scam them into purchasing unnecessary or fake antivirus software.

Step-by-step explanation:

The accurate definition of scareware is B) It is a kind of social engineering used to persuade people that a computer is infected when it is not.

Scareware is a type of malicious software that tricks users into believing their computer is infected with viruses or other malware, in order to scam them into purchasing unnecessary or fake antivirus software. It often uses pop-up messages or fake system alerts to create a sense of urgency and panic, prompting the user to take immediate action. Scareware can be encountered through email attachments, malicious websites, or through misleading advertisements.

The accurate definition of scareware is a type of malware that uses social engineering to cause fear and panic in computer users. Specifically, scareware involves tricks that persuade people into believing their computer is infected with a virus or other malicious software, even when it is not. This tactic is often used to manipulate users into purchasing unnecessary or fraudulent antivirus software. Scareware pops up with alarming messages or notifications that mimic legitimate security warnings, pressuring the user to take immediate action.