For many of us, our computers are not just machines; they are integral components of our lives. Because we often depend on them for work, school, research, communication, shopping, and entertainment, we understandably want to keep them running smoothly – and safely. There is a wide variety of excellent security programs to which we can turn for help, and there is also a wide variety of rogue programs that seek to capitalize on our need for security. Rogues like System Defragmenter strive to convince us of serious computer threats and that their software is the only way to resolve them.

Looking at System Defragmenter

Typical rogues issue pop-ups and false scan results in order to persuade you that your system is at risk. System Defragmenter is no different; it, too, depends on pop-up ads and false security scan results in order to persuade you that you need their protection. A sense of urgency builds as the pop-ups become more frequent. System Defragmenter depends on you acting quickly to protect your computer, but taking a few minutes to learn about rogue antivirus programs can help you avoid this particular rogue, as well as others in its class.

System Defragmenter presents itself as a repair and optimization program, and many of its pop-ups warn that essential hardware and features are at risk. A typical one reads, "Critical Error: RAM memory usage is critically high. RAM memory failure." Users are urged to purchase full protection immediately. Remember, though, that rogues cannot scan your computer, and they cannot resolve any security risks that you may have currently or in the future.

Accessing Your System

System Defragmenter relies on Trojans to gain access to your machine. Traditionally, Trojans have been harbored by adult, gaming, and warez sites, but malicious programs are also commonly found in search results for trending topics. It is possible to click on one of these sites, an ad, or open a corrupted email attachment and allow the Trojan to enter. Once in, it deposits rogue antivirus programs and other forms of malware.

This rogue can also be user-installed. When confronted with the pop-ups and warnings, many users opt to purchase the software and install it. Unfortunately, this does not resolve current issues or protect against future risks.

Slowed computer performance, difficulty accessing legitimate programs, changed desktop or taskbar icons, and, of course, the presence of endless pop-up ads, indicate the presence of a rogue antivirus program. When you notice these signs, take steps to remove System Defragmenter from your machine.