One of the most annoying and possibly threatening issues are unusual popups. One wrong click on an unsolicited popup and you can open up your computer to a whole host of problems. These can be anything from a “Slowing PC” to almost a complete shutdown.

Our first indication was that this is not an official popup and it should be ingnored at all costs. The reasoning for this was the fact that because I have AVG installed, why was I not notified via the Tray Icon? The same way it notifies me of a virus definition update. This would seem an more trusted and logical way of notifying people (Unless of course you do not have AVG installed)

Through further investigation though all indications point to the fact that this is a legitimate popup and can be followed with confidence.

If you do click the “Download Now” link then you are taken to the avg.com site. What we see now make everything a little more clear. You will see the advertisement for the AVG Internet Security currently priced at £39.14. At the bottom of the page is the link to the FREE version which is used by millions of users. If you would like to download the new verion, please click here

We would recommend that your Virus software and definitions are ALWAYS up to date and regular checks be done. If you do notice popups that are not relevent to you, or have just appeared right out of the blue, close them down immediately.

Emails are being sent out with the subject line “Domain Dispute and Registration”. These people introduce themselves as a domain registration service in Asia (A Chinese Phone Number is given). The email message states that they’ve received a formal application from someone who wants to use a “domain name” relevant to you.

It reads (for example)… “Last week we received a formal application submitted by Mr. George Zjou who wanted to use the keyword “hodgsonsinternet” to register the Internet Brand and with suffix such as .cn /.com.cn /.net.cn/.hk/ .asia/ domain names.”

It says that after their initial examination they’ve found that the domain name applied for is “…the same as your domain name and trademark….” and that because this may produce a possible dispute they’ve put the registration on hold. They go on to say you have five days to reply or they will approve the application.

It’s yet another scam to try and get to your hard-earned cash. The premise being that you’ll pay them for those domains rather than letting someone else register them. This term is know as Cybersquatting — registering a domain name, then offering to sell the domain to the person or company who owns a trademark for an inflated price.

Anybody can register a domain name but in this instance we believe it is worth staying well away from companies like this. Please circulate this knowledge to anyone you feel its relevant.