Please be advised that there are reports that some of our users are infected with this “FAKE” antivirus program (XP Antivirus 2008, or Vista Antivirus 2008, or Antivirus XP 2008). Usually, this problem occurs when you install program to your computer. It may also get from un-trusted website like  web banner ads, pop-ups ads and others.

The fake virus is advertised in the form of fake security alerts and warnings on web sites that state you are infected with malware or are being attacked. When you click on these ads, it will automatically download the installer for Antivirus XP 2008 and typically this fake anti-virus will install automatically on your computer without adequate notice and consent of the user.

Please read the virus description below and see the attached images for sample screenshots of the virus/trojan/malware.

If your computer is infected by this fake antivirus program, please contact your IT personnel to take necessary actions.

To avoid this problem, please read some pointers below:

1.    Do not install any program on your computer unless authorized by our IT department. Our IT staff install only the basic programs on your computer so that you can do your work efficiently. You should consult your IT department if you need additional software to install on your computer.
2.    Avoid visiting any website that is not work related. Be responsible on opening any website.
3.    Avoid downloading files from the Internet such as mp3’s, movies, etc.

================================================
Antivirus XP 2008 Descriptions:

Antivirus XP 2008 is a bogus antivirus application for Windows that was promoted and downloaded automatically by redirecting users internet browser to its predefined website.

Antivirus XP 2008 is one of the latest counterfeit antispyware that devastates the world wide web. Antivirus XP 2008 usually come up after you installed a video codec that come with Trojan, malware and virus. Antivirus XP 2008 normally generates fake and misleading system popup error messages so end-users will be tricked into purchase Antivirus XP 2008.

Antivirus XP 2008 is a new rogue anti-spyware program that is advertised through Trojans and other malware. It is advertised in the form of fake security alerts and warnings on web sites that state you are infected with malware or are being attacked in some manner. When you click on these ads, it will automatically download the installer for Antivirus XP 2008 and install it on your machine. In some cases, this program is installed without any intervention at all from you.

Once installed, Antivirus XP 2008 will scan your computer and display a variety of security risks found on your computer that can only be removed if you purchase a license of the software. These risks, though, are all fake and are only being displayed to scare you into thinking you are infected and thus purchase their software. Another tactic that Antivirus XP 2008, and the accompanied malware, uses is to change your desktop background to be a message stating you are infected, popups and fake alerts stating your computer is being attacked, and a fake Internet Explorer page that states google has found your computer to be infected. All of these are further scare tactics and should be ignored. These methods are all illustrated in the images below.

Source:

http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/malware-removal/remove-antivirus-xp-2008

http://www.spywareremove.com/security/antivirus-2009-xp-antivirus-cause-winlogon-infection/

http://www.precisesecurity.com/blogs/2008/06/26/antivirus-xp-2008/

================================================

Fake Antivirus XP screenshot:

Altered/changed desktop background:

Fake alert for Antivirus XP:

Fake web browser message Stating that you are infected: