Do not trust websites running the "Killer's IP Address" scam
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on
(updated)
"Killer's IP Address" scam removal instructions
What is the "Killer's IP Address" scam?
"Killer's IP Address" is a scam run on deceptive websites. This type of scheme is classified as a technical support scam. Typically, they informs users of threats detected on their devices and offer some kind of tech support services. "Killer's IP Address" specifically, states that the system has been infected with trojans, spyware and other malicious software. This scheme claims that to prevent losing access to the device, users must immediately contact "Microsoft" technical support. It must be emphasized that this scam is in no way connected to Microsoft and all of the information provided by it - is false. Most users access untrustworthy sites unintentionally, they get redirected to them by intrusive advertisements or by PUAs (Potentially Unwanted Applications), already installed onto the system.
When a webpage promoting "Killer's IP Address" is accessed, users are presented with multiple pop-ups. The text presented in some of these windows is in German, English - in others. The pop-up in the center of the page states that malicious pornographic spyware and other riskware has been detected on the device. Users are instructed to call "Microsoft" by the provided "toll free" number. This warning must not be ignored, as supposedly, if this website is closed - users will lose access to their computer. Since access will be deactivated in order to prevent further damage to the network. The message presented in the background page informs users that their device has been locked. The computer has been infected with trojans, due to a vulnerability created by the expiration of the system activation key. Allegedly, these fake malware infections have already led to the theft of users' message histories, account passwords and credit card details. Users are again urged to call the "technical support" number - to protect their data and identity. Another pop-up window at the bottom right of the page, claims that "Windows" has found potential threats present within the system. According to this message, the "Windows Security Essentials" were unable to block these viruses, which can harm the device and users' privacy. Users are once again instructed to call the line for more information and tech support. It must be reiterated that "Killer's IP Address" is a scam. Furthermore, no website can detect threats/issues present on a visitor's device; hence, any that may such claims are scams. While the numbers provided by these schemes are usually indicated as "free", that is rarely the case. The goal may be to keep users on the line for as long as possible - thereby generating revenue to the scammers. Alternatively, designers of such schemes may attempt to gain access to the device - under the guise of technicians trying to fix the issues. Scammers may also ask for payment for "services rendered". Alternatively, users can be requested to reveal personal information (e.g. names, addresses, emails, banking account and/or credit card details, etc.). To summarize, trusting "Killer's IP Address" and other scams can lead to system infections, financial losses, severe privacy issues and even identity theft. Therefore, it is strongly advised to ignore "Killer's IP Address" and close the site promoting this scam. In some cases, it may be impossible to simply close the website - then the Windows Task Manager is to be used to end the browser's process. Furthermore, upon reopening - the previous browsing session must not be restored, as doing so will simply reopen the scam webpage (or the site that opened it - will so again).
Aside from force-opening deceptive/scam pages, PUAs can cause redirects to sale-based, untrustworthy/rogue, compromised and malicious websites. However, these applications can have other/additional heinous abilities. Adware-types run intrusive advertisement campaigns. Once the delivered ads (e.g. pop-ups, coupons, banners, etc.) are clicked on, they redirect to similarly dangerous sites and can even stealthily download/install software. Another type of PUAs called browser hijackers modify browser settings and restrict/deny access to them - in order to promote fake search engines. The promoted web searchers are seldom capable of providing search results, so they redirect to Yahoo, Google, Bing and other legitimate ones. Most PUAs can monitor browsing activity (URLs visited, search queries typed, etc.) and collect personal information extracted from it (IP addresses, geolocations and other details). This sensitive data is often shared with and/or sold to third parties (potentially, cyber criminals). In summary, presence of unwanted apps on browsers/systems endangers device and user safety. Therefore, all suspicious applications and browser extensions/plug-ins must be eliminated without delay.
Name | "Killer's IP Address" tech support scam |
Threat Type | Phishing, Scam, Social Engineering, Fraud |
Fake Claim | Scam claims users' devices are infected and access to them may be blocked to prevent further damage. |
Tech Support Scammer Phone Number | +41 22 5188 918, +1-888-339-4838 |
Related Domains | buyshoesnow[.]xyz |
Detection Names (buyshoesnow[.]xyz) |
Kaspersky (Malware), Full List Of Detections (VirusTotal) |
Serving IP Address (buyshoesnow[.]xyz) |
66.198.240.39 |
Symptoms | Fake error messages, fake system warnings, pop-up errors, hoax computer scan. |
Distribution methods | Compromised websites, rogue online pop-up ads, potentially unwanted applications. |
Damage | Loss of sensitive private information, monetary loss, identity theft, possible malware infections. |
Malware Removal (Windows) | To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your computer with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Malwarebytes. |
"Error # 0x80092ee9", "Windows firewall has blocked some features of this program", "VIRUS ALERT FROM Windows" and "WIN.DLL011150 Error" are a some examples of other technical support scams. Popular scam models include (but are not limited to): warnings that the system is infected, alerts that a crucial piece of software is outdated, fake prize giveaways, ludicrous offers and deals, etc. Regardless of what these schemes claim, request or demand, the end-goal is the same - to generate revenue for the scammers / cyber criminals behind them. There are thousands of deceptive webpages on the Internet. Hence, it is highly recommended to exercise caution when browsing.
How did potentially unwanted applications install on my computer?
Some PUAs have "official" download pages. However, they can also be downloaded/installed together with other products. This false marketing method of pre-packing ordinary software with unwanted or malicious additions - is called "bundling". Rushed download/installation processes (e.g. ignored terms, skipped steps, etc.) - increase the risk of unintentionally allowing bundled content into the system. Intrusive adverts proliferate these applications as well. Upon being clicked, they can execute scripts designed to download/install PUAs, without user permission.
How to avoid installation of potentially unwanted applications?
All products should be researched prior to download/installation. Only official and verified download channels must be used. Untrustworthy sources, like: free file-hosting websites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks and other third party downloaders - commonly offer dubious and/or bundled content. When downloading/installing, it is important to read terms, explore all possible options, use the "Custom" or "Advanced" settings and opt-out from additional apps, tools, features, etc. Intrusive advertisements appear legitimate, however they redirect to various questionable sites (e.g. gambling, pornography, adult-dating, and so on). In case of encounters with such ads/redirects, the system must be inspected and all suspect applications and/or browser extensions/plug-ins promptly removed. If your computer is already infected with PUAs, we recommend running a scan with Malwarebytes for Windows to automatically eliminate them.
Text presented in "Killer's IP Address" scam:
Center pop-up:
support.windows.com sagt:
** Alerte d'avertissement Microsoft **
Bösartige pornografische Spyware / Riskware erkannt
Fehler # 0x80092ee9Bitte rufen Sie uns sofort an Rufen Sie Microsoft an: +41 22 5188 918
Ignorieren Sie diese kritische Warnung nicht.
Wenn Sie diese Seite schließen, wird der Zugriff auf Ihren Computer deaktiviert, um weitere Schäden an unserem Netzwerk zu vermeiden.
Ihr Computer hat uns gewarnt, dass er mit Spyware und riskanter Software infiziert ist. Die folgenden Informationen werden gestohlen ...
Rufen Sie Microsoft an: +41 22 5188 918 (Toll Free)
Verlasse die Seite
auf dem Laufenden bleiben
+41 22 5188 918
Fehler Logged at: Tue Jun 16 2020 10:08am
Microsoft Diagnostics IP-Adresse: 127.255.0.1
------------------------
Background page:
Call Support +41 22 5188 918
stop
Ihr Computer wurde gesperrt
Rufen Sie Microsoft an : +41 22 5188 918Ihr Computer mit IP-Adresse 191.84.29.41 wurde mit Trojanern infiziert - weil der Systemaktivierungsschlüssel abgelaufen ist und Ihre Informationen (z. B. Passwörter, Nachrichten und Kreditkarten) wurden gestohlen. Rufen Sie Microsoft an +41 22 5188 918 um Ihre Dateien und Ihre Identität vor weiteren Schäden zu schützen.
Rufen Sie Microsoft an : +41 22 5188 918
Melden Sie automatisch Details möglicher Sicherheitsvorfälle an Google. Datenschutzerklärung
------------------------
"Killer's IP Address" pop-up:
Killer's IP address: -
Method: IP ADDRESS | HOST_NAME
INITIALIZING
>>>> TRACKING KILLER'S IP ADDRESS WITH VISUAL BASIC GUID <<<<
>
> connecting to CIA internal database...
> bypassing CIA security with Brute Force hack...
> deleting trace record
> emptying cookies
> installing grub2/sda
> tracing network records
> crunching mbr
> running desktop cleanup wizard
> intializing GUI interface to track killer's IP
> accessing killer's fingerprint records to match hard drive taskbar iconIP TRACED
TRIANGULATINGTRACING COMPLETE
LAT 39.678622
LONG -83.927339
Dayton, Ohio - US
------------------------
Bottom-right pop-up:
Windows Detected Potential Threats On Your Computer.
Windows Security Essentials was unable to block the virus. Windows detected several potential threats that will compromise your privacy and harm your computer.
Error Code: 0x824402c , Windows couldn't install the definition updates.
More Information & Support Please Contact
+41 22 5188 918
The appearance of "Killer's IP Address" pop-up scam (GIF):
Yet another variant of "Killer's IP Address" pop-up scam:
Text presented within:
Call For Support
+1-888-339-4838
×
VIRUS ALERT FROM MICROSOFT
***This computer is BLOCKED***Do not close this window and restart your computer
Your computer's registration key is Blocked.
Why we have blocked your computer ?The window's registration key is illegal.
This window is using pirated software.
This window is sending virus over the internet.
This window is hacked or used from undefined location.
We have blocked this computer for your security.
Contact Windows helpline to reactivate your computer.
Enter Windows registration key to unblock or Call Support at
+1-888-339-4838 (Toll Free)
ENTER KEY:
Windows Support Alert
Your System Detected Some Unusual Activity.
It might harm your computer data and track your financial activities.
Please report this activity to +1-888-339-4838
Instant automatic malware removal:
Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced computer skills. Malwarebytes is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of malware. Download it by clicking the button below:
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Quick menu:
- What is "Killer's IP Address"?
- STEP 1. Uninstall deceptive applications using Control Panel.
- STEP 2. Remove adware from Internet Explorer.
- STEP 3. Remove rogue extensions from Google Chrome.
- STEP 4. Remove potentially unwanted plug-ins from Mozilla Firefox.
- STEP 5. Remove rogue extensions from Safari.
- STEP 6. Remove rogue plug-ins from Microsoft Edge.
Removal of potentially unwanted applications:
Windows 7 users:
Click Start (Windows Logo at the bottom left corner of your desktop), choose Control Panel. Locate Programs and click Uninstall a program.
Windows XP users:
Click Start, choose Settings and click Control Panel. Locate and click Add or Remove Programs.
Windows 10 and Windows 8 users:
Right-click in the lower left corner of the screen, in the Quick Access Menu select Control Panel. In the opened window choose Programs and Features.
Mac OSX users:
Click Finder, in the opened screen select Applications. Drag the app from the Applications folder to the Trash (located in your Dock), then right click the Trash icon and select Empty Trash.
In the uninstall programs window, look for any suspicious/recently-installed applications, select these entries and click "Uninstall" or "Remove".
After uninstalling the potentially unwanted application, scan your computer for any remaining unwanted components or possible malware infections. To scan your computer, use recommended malware removal software.
Remove rogue extensions from Internet browsers:
Video showing how to remove potentially unwanted browser add-ons:
Remove malicious add-ons from Internet Explorer:
Click the "gear" icon (at the top right corner of Internet Explorer), select "Manage Add-ons". Look for any recently-installed suspicious browser extensions, select these entries and click "Remove".
Optional method:
If you continue to have problems with removal of the "killer's ip address" tech support scam, reset your Internet Explorer settings to default.
Windows XP users: Click Start, click Run, in the opened window type inetcpl.cpl In the opened window click the Advanced tab, then click Reset.
Windows Vista and Windows 7 users: Click the Windows logo, in the start search box type inetcpl.cpl and click enter. In the opened window click the Advanced tab, then click Reset.
Windows 8 users: Open Internet Explorer and click the gear icon. Select Internet Options.
In the opened window, select the Advanced tab.
Click the Reset button.
Confirm that you wish to reset Internet Explorer settings to default by clicking the Reset button.
Remove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:
Click the Chrome menu icon (at the top right corner of Google Chrome), select "More tools" and click "Extensions". Locate all recently-installed suspicious browser add-ons and remove them.
Optional method:
If you continue to have problems with removal of the "killer's ip address" tech support scam, reset your Google Chrome browser settings. Click the Chrome menu icon (at the top right corner of Google Chrome) and select Settings. Scroll down to the bottom of the screen. Click the Advanced… link.
After scrolling to the bottom of the screen, click the Reset (Restore settings to their original defaults) button.
In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Google Chrome settings to default by clicking the Reset button.
Remove malicious plugins from Mozilla Firefox:
Click the Firefox menu (at the top right corner of the main window), select "Add-ons". Click on "Extensions", in the opened window remove all recently-installed suspicious browser plug-ins.
Optional method:
Computer users who have problems with "killer's ip address" tech support scam removal can reset their Mozilla Firefox settings.
Open Mozilla Firefox, at the top right corner of the main window, click the Firefox menu, in the opened menu, click Help.
Select Troubleshooting Information.
In the opened window, click the Refresh Firefox button.
In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Mozilla Firefox settings to default by clicking the Refresh Firefox button.
Remove malicious extensions from Safari:
Make sure your Safari browser is active, click Safari menu, and select Preferences....
In the opened window click Extensions, locate any recently installed suspicious extension, select it and click Uninstall.
Optional method:
Make sure your Safari browser is active and click on Safari menu. From the drop down menu select Clear History and Website Data...
In the opened window select all history and click the Clear History button.
Remove malicious extensions from Microsoft Edge:
Click the Edge menu icon (at the upper-right corner of Microsoft Edge), select "Extensions". Locate all recently-installed suspicious browser add-ons and click "Remove" below their names.
Optional method:
If you continue to have problems with removal of the "killer's ip address" tech support scam, reset your Microsoft Edge browser settings. Click the Edge menu icon (at the top right corner of Microsoft Edge) and select Settings.
In the opened settings menu select Reset settings.
Select Restore settings to their default values. In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Microsoft Edge settings to default by clicking the Reset button.
- If this did not help, follow these alternative instructions explaining how to reset the Microsoft Edge browser.
Summary:
Commonly, adware or potentially unwanted applications infiltrate Internet browsers through free software downloads. Note that the safest source for downloading free software is via developers' websites only. To avoid installation of adware, be very attentive when downloading and installing free software. When installing previously-downloaded free programs, choose the custom or advanced installation options – this step will reveal any potentially unwanted applications listed for installation together with your chosen free program.
Removal assistance:
If you are experiencing problems while trying to remove "killer's ip address" tech support scam from your computer, please ask for assistance in our malware support forum.
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