Caution: Beware of Fake Windows Movie Maker Scams
The original Windows Movie Maker was a powerful video editing tool integrated into several versions of Microsoft Windows, particularly popular in Windows XP, Vista, and 7. However, after the discontinuation of Windows 7 support, Microsoft replaced Windows Movie Maker with the built-in features of Windows Photos, which also includes a video editor. Unfortunately, there are many fake and scam websites that masquerade as the real Windows Movie Maker, misleading users into downloading potentially harmful software.
Unofficial Sources and Dangers
One such fake source is the website This site claims to offer the original Windows Movie Maker but is in fact a scam. It is important to be cautious of unofficial sources as they can sometimes offer outdated or unsupported software, which may not be safe to download or use.
Some users have reported paying for the software and upgrading it, but it is crucial to understand that this is a scam. The fake software may initially seem to work, but it is designed to repeatedly prompt the user to pay for a full version, which is not required for legitimate use. If you are interested in video editing, consider using the built-in tools in Windows Photos or exploring modern video editing software options.
How the Scam Works
The scam operates through a deceitful installation and usage process. When users download and install the software from the misleading website, they are presented with a functioning but limited software tool that claims to be a trial version. This trial version is designed to prompt users to pay for a full version, despite the fact that the full features can be accessed without payment.
The scammers use various tactics to repeatedly prompt users for payment. For instance, when the software is launched, it may display a message asking the user to purchase a full version. Additionally, attempts to save a new document can be blocked, creating the illusion that saving a document is a paid feature. The price for the fake upgrade can be as high as 2,995, which is significantly higher than the actual cost of the legitimate software.
The scammers use a payment website that is heavily disguised as legitimate. In reality, this payment website is controlled by the scammers and is used to make fraudulent transactions. One of the most notable instances of this scam was detected by ESET, a prominent cybersecurity company. ESET blocked the website, and reported a high number of detections in several countries, including the Philippines, Israel, Finland, and Denmark. Investigations revealed that the website had been registered back in 2010, indicating that it has been operating under the radar for a considerable period.
Stay Safe and Reported
To stay safe, it is essential to avoid downloading software from unofficial sources, especially those that offer a free trial but then pressure users for payment. If you suspect that you have downloaded a fake version of Windows Movie Maker, immediately uninstall the software and run a full system scan using your antivirus software. If the issue persists, contact the customer support of the legitimate software provider or a reputable cybersecurity service.
For more detailed information on this threat, visit the WeLiveSecurity website.
Remember, always verify the legitimacy of software sources and be cautious of any website offering free or trial versions of software that seem too good to be true. Protecting your digital devices is crucial in today's interconnected world.