Dealing with a Persistent Microsoft Defender Subscription Scam Popup

Have you recently encountered a troubling popup on your computer claiming that your Windows Defender antivirus has been upgraded to a Pro plan priced at $299.00? If so, you aren’t alone. Many users find themselves frustrated with this type of malicious scam, particularly when it seems to ignore all efforts to remove it.

The Popup Message

The popup typically reads:
“Your Windows Defender antivirus is upgraded to a Pro plan for $299.00. This payment will be charged to your credit card on August 26, 2024.”

While it’s clear that this is a scam, the real concern is whether your computer has been compromised and how to eliminate this annoying intrusion.

Steps Taken So Far

To tackle this issue, several precautions have been executed. A thorough strategy including a quick scan, full scan, and even an offline scan with Microsoft Defender has been employed. Unfortunately, despite these measures, the popup continues to reappear, leaving users feeling frustrated and helpless.

Identifying Possible Threats

One concerning element that may be contributing to the persistence of this scam is the presence of a process named conhost.exe located in the System32 folder. While initial research indicates that this file is not inherently malicious, its involvement with PowerShell each time the scam popup appears raises alarm bells.

What Can Be Done?

If you’re experiencing a similar issue and have implemented the conventional scans without success, consider the following steps:

1. Check Task Manager: Observe running processes for anything unusual, particularly relating to PowerShell or conhost.exe.

2. Run Additional Scans: Use a reputable third-party antivirus software to perform a comprehensive system scan. Sometimes, Windows Defender may miss certain threats.

3. Safe Mode Scan: Start your computer in Safe Mode and run your antivirus scans. This can help to prevent any active processes from interfering with the cleanup.

4. Seek Professional Help: If the problem persists despite your efforts, consult with a cybersecurity professional. They can help assess your system for potential vulnerabilities and recommend appropriate measures.

Conclusion

Navigating through the labyrinth of cyber threats can be daunting, especially when confronted with persistent popups like the Microsoft Defender subscription scam. Remaining vigilant and proactive is key to ensuring your computer’s safety. Remember, if something seems too good to be true, it usually is—stay informed and protect your digital environment.