It’s called the McAfee Critical Virus Alert, or something like that. But let’s be clear: whatever is generating these messages has not “found” a virus, but rather is malware in and of itself.

When customers purchase McAfee security software online, but before the download begins, a pop-up with a large “Try It Now” button appears.

According to the Sheriff's Office, the scam begins when a fake pop-up alert, appearing to be from the well-known antivirus company McAfee, appears on a potential victim's computer screen.

McAfee pop-up scam is making the rounds, be careful Now, many of you will probably think to yourself, well, I never had a McAfee subscription. Or you’ll be aware when your subscription ends.

A few flashes later I had a new popup in the lower right of my screen, saying I have 5 virus and I need to run McAfee to fix it.

Consumers sue McAfee over pop-ups By Reuters April 12, 201011:00 PM PDTUpdated April 12, 2010 ...