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FIX: Malware detected Windows Defender is taking action
4 min. read
Updated onApril 3, 2024
updated onApril 3, 2024
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If you just received a system pop-up fromWindows Defendersayingmalware detectedWindows Defenderis taking action to clean detected malwarebut nothing happens, you need to make sure that everything is still secured.
A virus ormalwaremight be causing all these problems, though, on the other hand, it might be only a compatibility issue betweenWindows Defenderand another third-party antivirus program.
So, before taking any action you need to make sure thatWindows Defenderis properly running on yourWindows 10system.
How do I get rid of the Malware detected alert?
1. Use Windows Defender
The first thing you should do when encountering theWindows Defender took action against threats messageis to verify its scanning history.
The default Windows antivirus might have found infected files but it is not able to properly remove them, especially when you get repeated alerts.
If the Windows Defender keeps saying threats found, then identify these files and manually remove them. You can also run the Microsoft Safety Scanner in order to extend the tool’s functionality.
2. Run a System Scan
You can also initiate the system scan through Safe Mode – in safe mode, third-party apps and processes are disabled by default
Therefore, certainmalwarewon’t be able to interfere with the scanning and removal process, so you can get rid of theWindows Defender taking action on threats taking too longalert.
3. Use a third-party antivirus software
If the history log isn’t showing any infected files it might be becauseWindows Defenderdetects the same virus but in different locations, and so it does not make a history entry.
However, some viruses are too clever for the basic Windows Defender. Perhaps, the software can detect suspicious activity, but it cannot remove it, so you’re stuck in a loop.
If that’s the case, you should consider choosing a differentantivirussolution that can perform a more complex scan and remove anything suspicious or dangerous.
In that matter, we recommend installing security software that uses advanced AI and machine learning to find threats ranging from simple spyware and adware to Trojans.
The tool is easy to install, the UI is intuitive, and it is lightweight, so it won’t consume your system’s resources. And that’s not all. This program can also keep your sensitive information private.
It has proven its capability of detecting multiple types ofmalwareand completely cleaning the system if you choose to do so
During the installation process,Windows Defendershould be automatically disabled. If it’s not, you need to perform this operation manually:
Once you make sure that your Windows Defender is disabled, and after you finished installing the antivirus tool, perform a scan using it. If malicious files will be found, they will be removed.
ESET HOME Security Essential
So, now you should know how to react when noticing themalwaredetectedWindows Defenderis taking action to clean detectedmalwarepop-up message displayed byWindows Defender.
In the same manner, if you’d like to see more similar products, take a look at ourlist of antivirus tools with lifetime licenses, and use it to choose a third-party antivirus that suits you.
Tell us how these solutions helped you, and give us any other feedback regarding the subject in the comment section below.
More about the topics:Bitdefender Fixes,Windows Defender issues
Andrew Wafer
Andrew is not just trying to bring you closer to Windows, but he’s truly interested in this platform. He just happens to be passionate about sharing that knowledge with our readers and that’s what makes his presence here, at WindowsReport, such a valuable one.
He specializes in writing about the best products for this operating system and Windows 10 fixes. Determined and creative, Andrew also loves coffee, country music, and Sunday mornings.
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