'Ads.financetrack(1).exe' POP-UP Scam

Cybersecurity researchers have discovered a technical support tactic that is tracked as 'Ads.financetrack(1).exe.' It is important to note that this fake error/malware name is commonly used by various technical support frauds.

These schemes make false claims about system infections to deceive victims into calling fake helplines. Once the fraudsters have convinced the victim to call the fake helpline, they will usually proceed to request remote access to the victim's device. This allows these people to gain control over the victim's computer, and they can then proceed to install malware or other malicious software.

The 'Ads.financetrack(1).exe' POP-UP Scam Shows Multiple Fake Security Alerts

The fake error/virus title 'Ads.financetrack(1).exe' is commonly used by technical support frauds. It can be found in various pop-ups, including 'Windows Firewall Protection Alert,' 'Firewall Error:,' 'Spyware Alert,' 'Microsoft Windows Virus Alert,' and others. These pop-ups also may imitate system scans and appear to be related to Windows/Microsoft or legitimate anti-virus software.

Technical support tactics falsely claim that the user's device is infected, hacked, or at risk and instruct the victim to call a provided telephone number to contact 'support,' 'Microsoft-certified technicians,' or other professionals to remove the threats or unblock the device. The fraudsters often ask for remote access to the victim's device using software like TeamViewer, UltraViewer, or AnyDesk, and they may disable or uninstall genuine security software, install fake anti-virus tools, steal content or data, and infect the system with malware such as Trojans, ransomware and crypt-miners.

The information that the fraudsters may be interested in includes personally identifiable details, usernames and passwords for email, social networking, online banking, e-commerce, digital wallets, credit card numbers, and other sensitive information. They may trick victims into disclosing this information over the phone, entering it where it is supposedly invisible to others, or typing it into phishing sites or files. Alternatively, they may use data-stealing malware to obtain this information.

The 'services' of technical support fraudsters are typically exorbitantly priced, and difficult-to-trace payment methods such as cryptocurrencies, pre-paid vouchers, gift cards, and cash hidden in packages are often used to avoid persecution and prevent victims from recovering their funds. It is noteworthy that successfully scammed victims are often targeted repeatedly.

How to Proceed if You Encounter a Tactic Similar to 'Ads.financetrack(1).exe'

In case a user encounters a scam page that cannot be closed, they should end the browser's process using the Windows Task Manager. It is important to note that previous browsing sessions should not be restored upon reopening the browser to avoid reopening the deceptive website.

If a user has already been allowed remote access to their device by cyber criminals, the first step is to disconnect it from the internet. The next step is to remove the remote access software that was used since the criminals may be able to reconnect without the user's consent. Lastly, the user should perform a full system scan with a professional anti-malware solution and eliminate all identified threats.

If a user suspects that their login credentials have been exposed, they should change the passwords of all potentially compromised accounts and notify official support without delay. In the event that other private information is believed to be at risks, such as ID card details or credit card numbers, the user should contact the appropriate authorities immediately.