Grisoft Offers Free Rootkit Removal Tool

Antivirus software maker GRISOFT today introduced a new, free product aimed at detection and removal of Rootkits.

Rootkits are a specific malware type which hide in other applications or a computer‘s operating system kernel. This allows malicious applications to then collect passwords and sensitive data from the infected computer without user knowledge for personal information theft, spam relay and other criminal intents.

Rootkits have become a severe threat in comparison to traditional malware because conventional antivirus often misses the hidden rootkit.

They execute by embedding applications within the operating system, which is also an essential application to many necessary programs including antivirus protection, so it is important to correctly distinguish between malicious rootkits and legitimately hidden processes.

GRISOFT carried out six months of open beta program testing to ensure AVG Anti-Rootkit is able to protect users and operating systems without the confusion and hassle of false alarms.

Rootkits were originally used by hackers and crackers to cover their tracks after unauthorized access to computers. Today, these techniques have been redesigned in order to mask the presence of malicious software used to gather and exploit personal information such as credit card numbers and social security numbers creating a serious threat to users.

Like all AVG products, AVG Anti-Rootkit offers users free, regular updates and a simple user interface. AVG Anti-Rootkit is available now to all users as a free, English version download.