Remove Windows Active Guard (Uninstall Guide)

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Written by: Stelian Pilici

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Windows Active Guard is a computer virus which will display fake security alerts,reporting that malware has been detected on your computer.This alerts are professional looking pop-ups and when you click on them, you are advised to buy Windows Active Guard in order to remove the detected threats.
In reality, none of the reported issues are real, and are only used to scare you into buying Windows Active Guard and stealing your personal financial information.

Apart from the bogus alerts,as part of its self-defense mechanism,Windows Active Guard has disabled the Windows system utilities, including the Windows  Task Manager and Registry Editor,and will block you from running certain programs that could lead to its removal.
This fake antivirus can also cause, browser redirects when you are trying to visit security websites and will slow down your computer.

If your computer is infected with Windows Active Guard,then you are seeing this images:

Windows Active Guard Virus

Windows Active Guard

Windows Active Guard Activation

We strongly advise you to follow our Windows Active Guard removal guide and ignore any alerts that this malicious software might generate.
Under no circumstance should you buy this rogue security software as this could lead to identity theft,and if you have, you should contact your credit card company and dispute the charge stating that the program is a scam and a computer virus.

Registration codes for Windows Active Guard
As an optional step,you can use the following license key to register Windows Active Guard and stop the fake alerts.
0W000-000B0-00T00-E0020
Please keep in mind that entering the above registration code will NOT remove Windows Active Guard from your computer , instead it will just stop the fake alerts so that you’ll be able to complete our removal guide more easily.

Removal Instructions for Windows Active Guard

STEP 1 : Start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking

  1. Remove all floppy disks, CDs, and DVDs from your computer, and then restart your computer.
  2. Press and hold the F8 key as your computer restarts.Please keep in mind that you need to press the F8 key before the Windows start-up logo appears.
    Note: With some computers, if you press and hold a key as the computer is booting you will get a stuck key message. If this occurs, instead of pressing and holding the “F8 key”, tap the “F8 key” continuously until you get the Advanced Boot Options screen.
  3. On the Advanced Boot Options screen, use the arrow keys to highlight Safe Mode with Networking , and then press ENTER.
    [Image: Safemode.jpg]

STEP 2: Remove Windows Active Guard malicious proxy server

Windows Active Guard may add a proxy server which prevents the user from accessing the internet,follow the below instructions to remove the proxy.

  1. Start the Internet Explorer browser and if you are using Internet Explorer 9 ,click on the gear icon [Image: IE gear icon] (Tools for Internet Explorer 8 users) ,then select Internet Options.
    [Image: Internet-options-IE.png]
  2. Go to the tab Connections.At the bottom, click on LAN settings.
    [Image: Remove-proxy-server2.png]
  3. Uncheck the option Use a proxy server for your LAN. This should remove the malicious proxy server and allow you to use the internet again.
    [Image: Remove-proxy-server3.png]

If you are a Firefox users, go to Firefox(upper left corner) → Options → Advanced tab → Network → Settings → Select No Proxy

STEP 3: Run RKill to terminate known malware processes associated with Windows Active Guard.

RKill is a program that will attempt to terminate all malicious processes associated with Windows Active Guard,so that we will be able to perform the next step without being interrupted by this malicious software.
Because this utility will only stop Windows Active Guard running process, and does not delete any files, after running it you should not reboot your computer as any malware processes that are configured to start automatically will just be started again.

  1. While your computer is in Safe Mode with Networking ,please download the latest official version of RKill.Please note that we will use a renamed version of RKILL so that Windows Active Guard won’t block this utility from running.
    RKILL DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will automatically download RKILL renamed as iExplore.exe)
  2. Double-click on the iExplore.exe icon in order to automatically attempt to stop any processes associated with Windows Active Guard.
    [Image: run-rkill-1.png]
  3. RKill will now start working in the background, please be patient while the program looks for various malware programs and tries to terminate them.
    [Image: run-rkill-2.png]
    IF you are having problems starting or running RKill, you can download any other renamed versions of RKill from here.
  4. When Rkill has completed its task, it will generate a log. You can then proceed with the rest of the guide.
    [Image: Windows Active Guard rkill3.jpg]

WARNING: Do not reboot your computer after running RKill as the malware process will start again , preventing you from properly performing the next step.

STEP 4: Remove Windows Active Guard malicious files with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware FREE

  1. Download the latest official version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware FREE.
    MALWAREBYTES ANTI-MALWARE DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will open a download page in a new window from where you can download Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free)
  2. Start the Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware installation process by double clicking on mbam-setup file.
    [Image: Malwarebytes Installer]
  3. When the installation begins, keep following the prompts in order to continue with the setup process. Do not make any changes to default settings and when the program has finished installing, make sure you leave both the Update Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware and Launch Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware checked. Then click on the Finish button. If Malwarebytes’ prompts you to reboot, please do not do so.
    [Image: Finishing Malwarebytes installation]
  4. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start and you’ll be prompted to start a trial period , please select ‘Decline‘ as we just want to use the on-demand scanner.
    [Image: Decline Malwarebytes trial]
  5. On the Scanner tab,select Perform full scan and then click on the Scanbutton to start scanning your computer.
    [Image: Starting a full system sca]
  6. Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware will now start scanning your computer for Windows Active Guard malicious files as shown below.
    [Image: Malwarebytes scanning for malicious files]
  7. When the scan is finished a message box will appear, click OK to continue.[Image: Malwarebytes scan results]
  8. You will now be presented with a screen showing you the malware infections that Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware has detected.Please note that the infections found may be different than what is shown in the image.Make sure that everything is Checked (ticked) and click on the Remove Selected button.
    [Image: Infections found by Malwarebytes]
  9. Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware will now start removing the malicious files.After completing this task it will display a message stating that it needs to reboot,please allow this request and then let your PC boot in Normal mode.

STEP 5: Double check your system for any left over infections with HitmanPro

  1. This step can be performed in Normal Mode ,so please download the latest official version of HitmanPro.
    HITMANPRO DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will open a download page in a new window from where you can download HitmanPro)
  2. Double click on the previously downloaded fileto start the HitmanPro installation.
    [Image: HitmanPro Icon]
    IF you are experiencing problems while trying to start HitmanPro, you can use the Force Breach mode.To start HitmanPro in Force Breach mode, hold down the left CTRL-key when you start HitmanPro and all non-essential processes are terminated, including the malware process. (How to start HitmanPro in Force Breach mode – Video)
  3. Click on Next to install HitmanPro on your system.
    [Image: Starting HitmanPro]
  4. The setup screen is displayed, from which you can decide whether you wish to install HitmanPro on your machine or just perform a one-time scan, select a option then click on Next to start a system scan.
    [Image: HitmanPro installation screen]
  5. HitmanPro will start scanning your system for malicious files as seen in the image below.
    [Image: HitmanPron scanning for Windows Active Guard]
  6. Once the scan is complete,you’ll see a screen which will display all the malicious files that the program has found.Click on Next to remove this malicious files.
    [Image: HitmanPro scan results]
  7. Click Activate free license to start the free 30 days trial and remove the malicious files.
    [Image: Activate HitmanPro license]
  8. HitmanPro will now start removing the infected objects.If this program will ask you to restart your computer,please allow this request.

If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove Windows Active Guard from your machine, please start a new thread in our Malware Removal Assistance forum.

How to Stay Safe Online

Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:

  1. Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.

    Shield Guide

    It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.

  2. Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.

    updates-guide

    Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.

  3. Be careful when installing programs and apps.

    install guide

    Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."

  4. Install an ad blocker.

    Ad Blocker

    Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.

  5. Be careful what you download.

    Trojan Horse

    A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.

  6. Be alert for people trying to trick you.

    warning sign

    Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.

  7. Back up your data.

    backup sign

    Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.

  8. Choose strong passwords.

    lock sign

    Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.

  9. Be careful where you click.

    cursor sign

    Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.

  10. Don't use pirated software.

    Shady Guide

    Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.

To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.

32 thoughts on “Remove Windows Active Guard (Uninstall Guide)”

  1. I had a coworker having a problem with Windows Active Guard. She thought it was a legit program and therefore didn’t describe it to me when telling me what was going on. As soon as I got her laptop on, I saw that nasty booger. Thanks to your blog, she’s up and running again!! Thanks!

  2. Hello Mike B,
    Can you please run a scan with Combofix, ESET online scanner and post the logs here so that I can get an idea on what’s going on:

    STEP 1 : Run a scan with Combofix

    Download ComboFix from one of the following locations:

    COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #1 (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)
    COMBOFIX DOWNLOAD LINK #2  (This link will automatically download Combofix on your computer)

    VERY IMPORTANT !!! Save as Combo-Fix.exe during the download.ComboFix must be renamed before you download to your Desktop

    • Close any open browsers.
    • Very Important! Temporarily disable your anti-virus, script blocking and any anti-malware real-time protection beforeperforming a scan. They can interfere with ComboFix or remove some of its embedded files which may cause “unpredictable results”.
    • WARNING: Combofix will disconnect your machine from the Internet as soon as it starts
    • Please do not attempt to re-connect your machine back to the Internet until Combofix has completely finished.
    • If there is no internet connection after running Combofix, then restart your computer to restore back your connection.
    1. Double click on ComboFix.exe & follow the prompts.
    2. Accept the disclaimer and allow to update if it asks
    3. When finished, it shall produce a log for you.

    Notes:

    1. Do not mouse-click Combofix’s window while it is running. That may cause it to stall.
    2. Do not “re-run” Combofix. If you have a problem, reply back for further instructions.
    3.  If after the reboot you get errors about programms being marked for deletion then reboot, that will cure it.

    STEP 2: Run a scan with ESET Online Scanner:

    1. Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
      ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
    2. Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
    3. Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
    4. Click the Start button.
    5. Check Scan archives
    6. Push the Start button.
    7. ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
    8. When the scan completes, push Finish

    NEXT,please run a scan with HitmanPro as seen on the guide.
    Waiting for your reply to tell me if your machine is ok and the logs from this utilities.

  3. Windows firewall, but I couldn’t disable it, the virus wouldn’t let me do anything. I tried putting Rkill on a thumb drive and loading it that way, since I can’t get online. I ran it and it found a couple things. Then I put Malwarebytes on the thumbdrive and ran it. It found an HDD problem, which it fixed. But I STILL can’t get online and as a result I can’t run Hitman Pro (which requires the internet). Also I still see the File_Recovery shortcut on my desktop (the icon is two gears). Any suggestions??

  4. Hello Mike,
    What firewall are you using?
    Can you please try to temporarily disable it and see if you can connect to the Internet?
    Waiting your reply to give you further instructions…

  5. Stuck on Step 2 and I’m going crazy b/c I can’t get online to get the Rkill or anti-malware. I’ve checked in both Firefox and Explorer and it doesn’t appear the virus/malware has changed my proxy settings. “Use a proxy server for your LAN” is not checked but I still can’t get online.

    Any suggestions?? Argh…

  8. Thank you sooo much. I tried everything to get rid of this virus and nothing worked, then I found this guide and it worked perfectly. I really appreciate it :)

  9. Thank you sooo much. I tried everything to get rid of this virus and nothing worked, then I found your guide and it worked perfectly. I really appreciate it!

  10. Hello Lexi,
    Lets try another way around this :
    STEP 1. While in NORMAL MODE,download HitmanPro and then start this program in ForceBreach Mode
    1.Here are the direct download links for HitmanPro,
    – http://dl.surfright.nl/HitmanPro36.exe (For 32bit)
    – http://dl.surfright.nl/HitmanPro36_x64.exe (For 64bit)
    2.Hold down the left CTRL-key when you start HitmanPro and all non-essential processes are terminated, including this rogue malicious process
    Here is a video that explains with graphic details how to do this : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6eRWTv2STk
    3. Let HitmanPro scan and remove the detected infections.

    STEP 2: While in NORMAL MODE,download/Run Rkill and then run a scan with Malwarebytes
    1.Download any re-named version of Rkill (direct download links bellow):
    RKILL DOWNLOAD LINK #1
    RKILL DOWNLOAD LINK #2
    RKILL DOWNLOAD LINK #3
    2.Next,please perform a scan with Malwarebytes as seen on the guide.

    STEP 3. Run a scan with ESET Online Scanner

    1. Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
      ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
    2. Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
    3. Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
    4. Click the Start button.
    5. Check Scan archives
    6. Push the Start button.
    7. ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
    8. When the scan completes, push List of found threats
    9. Push Export to Text file  and save the file to your desktop using a unique name, such as ESET Scan. Include the contents of this report in your next reply.Note – when ESET doesn’t find any threats, no report will be created.
    10. Push the back button.
    11. Push Finish

    Waiting for your reply to tell me how everything is working.. :) Good luck!

  11. Tips were working great until I went to g download the RKill and my Internet won’t connect on saft mode. Am I doing something wronge?

  12. Brilliant! Malwarebites detected 759 virus attacks from this malware and cleaned the lot no problem where other anti virus softwares detected nothing.
    Keep up the good work.

  13. Those of you reading this and wondering if it works… YES IT WORKS!
    Stelian… You are a bloody legend.
    Good on ya mate. Cheers.

  14. Hello Stephen,
    Lets try another way around this :
    STEP 1. While in NORMAL MODE,download HitmanPro and then start this program in ForceBreach Mode
    1.Here are the direct download links for HitmanPro,
    – http://dl.surfright.nl/HitmanPro36.exe (For 32bit)
    – http://dl.surfright.nl/HitmanPro36_x64.exe (For 64bit)
    2.Hold down the left CTRL-key when you start HitmanPro and all non-essential processes are terminated, including this rogue malicious process
    Here is a video that explains with graphic details how to do this : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6eRWTv2STk
    3. Let HitmanPro scan and remove the detected infections.

    STEP 2: While in NORMAL MODE,download/Run Rkill and then run a scan with Malwarebytes
    1.Download any re-named version of Rkill (direct download links bellow):
    RKILL DOWNLOAD LINK #1
    RKILL DOWNLOAD LINK #2
    RKILL DOWNLOAD LINK #3
    2.Next,please perform a scan with Malwarebytes and then do a RogueKiller and Unhide.exe scan as seen on the guide

    STEP 3. Run a scan with ESET Online Scanner

    1. Download ESET Online Scanner utility.
      ESET Online Scanner Download Link (This link will automatically download ESET Online Scanner on your computer.)
    2. Double click on the Eset installer program (esetsmartinstaller_enu.exe).
    3. Check Yes, I accept the Terms of Use
    4. Click the Start button.
    5. Check Scan archives
    6. Push the Start button.
    7. ESET will then download updates for itself, install itself, and begin scanning your computer. Please be patient as this can take some time.
    8. When the scan completes, push List of found threats
    9. Push Export to Text file  and save the file to your desktop using a unique name, such as ESET Scan. Include the contents of this report in your next reply.Note – when ESET doesn’t find any threats, no report will be created.
    10. Push the back button.
    11. Push Finish

    Waiting for your reply to tell me how everything is working.. :) Good luck!

  16. I’m having a problem that Malwarebyte freezes when I hit ‘remove selected’. Are there any other programs that I can use? Or does anyone have an idea why it’s freezing?

  18. I want to say very big thank you to you. My computer was under heavy attack from this virus and many others. I stumbled upon this blog online and followed the step-by-step guide and it HELP me remove those nasty virus!!! God bless the authors of this blog.. Keep up the good work.

  23. I followed the instructions to the letter and my wife’s computer is now virus-free. Thank you.

  26. Thank you So so much! I was so stuck when I saw that this virus had taken over my entire laptop. After with the use of your simple step-by-step guide my laptop is perfect! I saved money from taking it to an expert and feel like I have a sense of computer accomplishment! Thank you so so much!

  28. Stelian, I cannot thank you enough for providing such a valuable service! Your guide is so well written, you make it so simple to follow with your step-by-step format. I am so relieved there was a solution out there & I am so grateful to you for taking the time to help people out.

  30. Followed your guide and everything worked out for me!
    Nasty virus , I wish someone would track the authors down and kill them!

  32. Thank you so much I would have not been able to fix my computer without this .Again thank you!

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