ICQ virus (Removal Instructions) - updated Jan 2018

What is ICQ virus?

ICQ virus tries to trick users into clicking on the malicious link

ICQ virus operates inside the legitimate ICQ platform as a fraudulent message with an infected URL. Once the user clicks on it, he or she is redirected to less than reliable websites, named JokeBox and JokeWorld. Unfortunately, this malware^[1] tends to hijack its victim's ICQ account and send the same malicious message to the contact list. This way it keeps spreading around the globe.

Please, stay away from these sites as it is known that they have been used for spreading malware. Besides, when dealing with ICQ virus, you can run into another scenario – you can easily download a malicious Trojan horse^[2]. That's because this fraudulent link can also work as a malicious installer. Note that programs with Trojan-like features can let other dangerous programs inside your system.

As a result, you can not only find out that your ICQ program is hijacked and each of your contacts received the same misleading message that you were dealing with. You can also discover unseen applications on your computer that can be used for initiating unwanted and malicious activities. Such malware can easily trick you into purchasing non-existent security tools or may also steal your personal information, such as banking data, passwords and other login details.

ICQ virus delivers deceptive messages with an infected link, which leads to suspicious websites — Jokebox or Jokeworld.

Finally, keep in mind that this virus can also be used to block legitimate software and try to prevent its removal from the system. After testing it, we must say that this virus is similar to Skype virus and other malware that have been discovered some time ago.

If you think that you are infected with this cyber threat, you should run a full system scan with updated anti-spyware without any delay. For that, we highly recommend using FortectIntego or other reputable security tools. It will help you remove ICQ virus right away without any complicated tasks.

After ICQ virus removal, we suggest you to always keep your security software updated. This will prevent the infiltration of other high-risk computer infections which target to exploit system vulnerabilities and damage the computer or swindle money from you.

Clicking on suspicious links online might infiltrate the virus

Since this malicious program spreads inside the legitimate ICQ program as a fraudulent link, there is no other way to protect your system rather than pay close attention and learn how to recognize attempts to infiltrate malware. Security experts from DieViren.de^[3] suggest you follow these steps if you want to avoid ICQ virus:

1. Use a professional anti-virus software at all times;
2. Update the anti-malware tool regularly;
3. Keep your OS and ICQ program up-to-date as well;
4. NEVER click on links which are sent by unknown senders;
5. Avoid adding people you don't know to your friend list;
6. Keep away from shady websites which might be malware-laden;
7. Do NOT click on commercial content online, including ads, pop-ups, banners, etc.

Learn how to stop ICQ virus from spreading

If you have recently received the indicated message, it is important that you would not click on it. This will help you to save your friends from getting the same malicious link and infecting their systems. However, this will only temporarily remove ICQ virus.

Later, and in case you have clicked on the infected URL, get a robust security software an scan your computer. It should complete ICQ virus removal and clean your computer from other potentially unwanted programs. We recommend using FortectIntego, SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner, or Malwarebytes. They will save your time and protect your system from future cyber infections.