Is this email below a scam or is it real, it was received from internet-security@virginmedia.com
IMPORTANT] Virgin Media Alert: Your device may have a virus
14 March 2014
Virgin Media Account Holder: xxxxxxx
Your Virgin Media account number: 31 - xxxxxxxxxxx
Our Reference: MALWARE-F002974709
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Dear Mrs xxxxx
We have been alerted that your computer may have become infected with a virus, commonly known as "malware" (malicious software). This e-mail gives you details of what we know and how you can deal with it.
What has happened?
We work with a number of not-for-profit organisations across the banking industry and security sectors that collate information on devices across the Internet that appear to be infected with a virus. They alert us and other UK Internet Service Providers when any of these devices appear on their network. Through this tracking they have notified us that a device on your home Internet connection (or one connected to your home network) may be infected with the torpig virus.
An infected device may result in it being used to send out more viruses to other Internet users. Any personal data that you hold on your devices could be compromised, corrupted or lost. Malware can also cause your Internet connection to slow down.
The torpig virus was detected on a device using your Internet connection or home network on 10 March 2014. If you are already aware of the issue, and have taken steps to fix it since this date you can ignore this communication. Otherwise it is very important that you take steps now to remedy this situation and make your device and network safe and secure.
What can I do about it?
First of all - don't worry! We're here to help and if you have a basic knowledge of digital devices there are a number of steps you can take to get rid of viruses and to keep you protected. Please note, you should read all three steps listed below first:-
1. Check to see if your device has a virus
The best way to do this is by using an online virus scanner, a couple of good free ones are;
eset.com/onlinescan *
bitdefender.co.uk/scanner/online/free.html *
2. Use your Internet Security package to remove the virus
F-Secure SAFE is included free of charge with your Virgin Broadband and this should get rid of most viruses. If you already use F-Secure SAFE, make sure "Viruses and spyware scanning" is turned on.
If you don't have a security package installed you can get award winning internet security F-Secure SAFE, free for 12 months by registering or signing into your account atvirginmedia.com/myvirginmedia and go to My Apps. Once downloaded and installed it will immediately run a scan of your device.
Following the above two points should enable you to clean your device without too much trouble. However you could also try the following if you prefer.
3. Pay for a service to check your computer is clear
You can take your device to a local computer repair shop, or a nationwide big chain and pay for your device to be cleaned. Or you can visit non-Virgin Media, security websites that offer advice on virus removal or you could use Virgin Media's Digital Home Support service**. If you've already got a subscription you can use this immediately**. More information on the service can be found atvirginmedia.com/dhs.
Yours Sincerely
Gordon Rich
Virgin Media
* These links to external sites are provided as a courtesy and we are not responsible for the content of these sites or any problems encountered whilst applying these steps and we are not able to provide any technical support for such problems.
** Minimum system requirements and Acceptable Use Policy apply. Digital Home Support is available on a monthly subscription basis (6 month minimum term applies) or as a "One-Off Fix" service. Digital Home Support terms and conditions apply
PLEASE NOTE: This is an advisory e-mail that has been generated from an e-mail address that is unable to accept replies. Please visit getsafeonline.org for free online security advice.