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FIX: Malicious Software error in Microsoft Security Essentials
3 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
Without a doubt,Windows 7is still one of the most usedOSin the world. Despite the fact that there are various reasons to upgrade toWindows 10, users worldwide are still not willing to do so.
And we understand their mistrust with the latest Microsoft addition. Namely, even thoughWindows 7has fewer features, it also has much fewer system issues that you may encounter in everyday use. Fewer but not none, sadly.
One of those issues is mild but can be annoying, and is related toMicrosoft Security Essentials(MSE). It seems that some users were prompted with malicious software notification but, both quick or full scan, have found nothing. Moreover, the history log of quarantined files is not available.
Here’s one of the most frequent MSEerror messagesencountered by users:
Preliminary scan results show that malicious or potentially unwanted software might exist on your system. You can review detected items when the scan has completed.
If you’ve experienced an identical or similarbug, we prepared a few possible workarounds for you to fix this issue.
How do I fix Microsoft Security Essentials bugs in Windows 7?
1. Download latest security updates
Your first step should be to check for the latest security updates. Even though Microsoft stopped with upgrades forWindows 7, the system still receives security updates.
Moreover, without those updates, you can experience various issues. And the malware security threats are not the only ones.
In case you don’t use updates, we advise you to use a 3rd-partyantivirusrather thanMicrosoft Security Essentials. Without an updated database, it is barely useful.
2. Scan PC with alternative 3rd-party antimalware software
Besides Microsoft’ssecuritytools, you can use any 3rd-partyantivirusto check for possible malware infections. You can download and install free programs or use onlinesecurityscans in order to identify the problem. Here are some of the most trusted freesecuritysolutions:
When it comes to online solutions, we advise you to useESET Online Scanner.
3. Update manually to latest MSE version
There is always a possibility that some of the latest updates created bugs and problems in the first place. So, as most of the technicians would advise you, you shouldtry to turn it off and then on, or in this case, reinstall the MSE. You can do it this way:
4. Uninstall suspicious programs
Certain programs can be identified as Possibly Unwanted Software and that can lead to mentionederrors. If the issue started after a certain program was installed, we advise you to uninstall it.
Moreover, some of the registry files can be placed inPreliminary Scan Resultsand checked out as possiblemalware. You should create an exclusion for those files.
The list is now complete. Have in mind that some of the upcoming security updates may resolve this issue. If you have any questions or additional solutions, please tell us in the comments.
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More about the topics:error,Microsoft Security Essentials,windows 7
Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.
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Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
