Spyware is probably the second worst thing that can get placed on your computer next to a full blown virus. Spyware is embedded into free programs, and websites and you know you have it when you begin receiving pop-ups or your computer runs slower than usual.

Well, it’s always great to see one of these jerks get caught and now being even forced to pay. Here’s the story:

Zhijian Chen was using a Windows command that allowed him to display a pop-up on victims’ computers. The pop-up appeared to be a security message, warning the user that his/her computer was infected with spyware.

The folled users clicked on a link on the popup which directed them to Chen’s webpage and then to the Secure Computer site. There the users were offered a free “scan” for spyware (the software though is a hoax).

The scan always showed that the computer was infected with spyware even if that was not the case. To get rid of the so-called “spyware” the user needed to buy the software for $49.99. Chen was paid 75% or $37.46 for every single copy of this bogus software sold.

Attorney General Rob McKenna stated:

“Chen made thousands of dollars by sending invasive messages intended to mislead consumers into believing their computers were infected with a dangerous virus and that Secure Computer’s software was the fix. Nothing could be further from the truth.”

He also added:

“Let this be a warning to other online advertisers. When you attempt to harm or deceive, you will pay. We will not tolerate those who try to profit by preying on consumer’s fears of spyware and other malware.”

This whole case started back in January when Microsoft and McKenna filed lawsuits against Secure Computer. Chen is now forced to pay $84 000: $16,000 back to the users who were deceived into buying Spyware Cleaner, $24,000 in fines, and $44,000 in legal fees.

This is exactly what he deserves. I’m happy to see that these criminals are getting caught and are being punished. I think hitting them in their pocket books is also a good idea.

[via TechWeb]

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