How to remove XP Defender 2013 (Uninstall Guide)

XP Defender 2013 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 XP Defender 2013 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 XP Defender 2013 and stealing your personal financial information.

Apart from the bogus alerts,as part of its self-defense mechanism,XP Defender 2013 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.Further more,this rogue antivirus has modified your Windows files associations and now,whenever you are trying to any programs that have a .exe extension ,XP Defender 2013 it will display a bogus notification in which will report that the file is infected,in an attempt to scare you.

If your computer is infected with XP Defender 2013,then you are seeing this screens:

XP Defender 2013 virus

XP Defender 2013 Warning

XP Defender 2013 License Key

We strongly advise you to follow our XP Defender 2013 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 XP Defender 2013
As an optional step,you can use the following license key to register XP Defender 2013 and stop the fake alerts.
XP Defender 2013 License Key: 3425-814615-3990
Please keep in mind that entering the above registration code will NOT remove XP Defender 2013 from your computer , instead it will just stop the fake alerts so that you’ll be able to complete our removal guide more easily.

XP Defender 2013 Removal Guide

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: Repair your Windows Registry from XP Defender 2013 malicious changes.

XP Defender 2013 has changed your Windows registry settings so that when you try to run a executable file,it will instead launch the infection rather than the desired program.

  1. Download the registryfix.reg file to fix the malicious registry changes from XP Defender 2013.
    REGISTRYFIX.REG DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will automatically download the registry fix called registryfix.reg)
  2. Double-click on registryfix.reg file to run it. Click “Yes” for Registry Editor prompt window,then click OK.
    [Image: fix registry]

STEP 3: Run RKill to terminate known malware processes associated with XP Defender 2013.

RKill is a program that will attempt to terminate all malicious processes associated with XP Defender 2013,so that we will be able to perform the next step without being interrupted by this malicious software.
Because this utility will only stop XP Defender 2013 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 XP Defender 2013 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 XP Defender 2013.
    [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: XP Defender 2013 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 XP Defender 2013 malicious files with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware FREE

    Malwarebytes Anti-Malware is a powerfull on-demand scanner which will remove XP Defender 2013 malicious files from your computer.

  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 XP Defender 2013 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: Remove XP Defender 2013 rootkit with HitmanPro

In some cases XP Defender 2013 also comes bundled with a ZeroAccess rootkit.To remove this infection we will need to run a scan 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 XP Defender 2013]
  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.

STEP 6: Remove any left over malicious registry keys and files

XP Defender 2013 has sadded some malicious registry keys to your Windows installation , to remove this malicious changes we need to run a scan with RogueKiller.

  1. Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
    ROGUEKILLER DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will automatically download RogueKiller on your computer)
  2. Double click on RogueKiller.exe to start this utility and then wait for the Prescan to complete.This should take only a few seconds and then you can click the Start button to perform a system scan.
    RogueKiller scanning after XP Defender 2013 virus virus
  3. After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys.
    Remove XP Defender 2013 virus  infection with RogueKiller
  4. Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, so click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.
    Remove residual damage from XP Defender 2013 virus virus

If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove XP Defender 2013 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.

9 thoughts on “How to remove XP Defender 2013 (Uninstall Guide)”

  1. Thanks!!! This worked great. I shared this link with my friends family and others in case they run into the same problem. Thanks again!!!!!!

  2. Hello Sego,
    Can you please run a scan with the below tools:
    STEP 1: Run a scan with RogueKiller

    1. Please download the latest official version of RogueKiller.
      RogueKiller Download Link (This link will automatically download RogueKiller on your computer)
    2. Double click on RogueKiller.exe to start this utility and then wait for the Prescan to complete.This should take only a few seconds and then you can click the Scan button to perform a system scan.
    3. After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove any malicious registry keys.

    STEP 2: Run a scan with Emsisoft Emergency Kit.

    1. Please download the latest official version of Emsisoft Emergency Kit.
      EMSISOFT EMERGENCY KIT DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will open a download page in a new window from where you can download Emsisoft Emergency Kit)
    2. After the download process will finish , you’ll need to unpack EmsisoftEmergencyKit.zip and then double click on EmergencyKitScanner.bat
    3. A pop-up will prompt you to update Emsisoft Emergency Kit , please click the “Yes” button.After the Update process has completed , put the mouse cursor over the “Menu” tab on the left and click-on “Scan PC“.
    4. Select “Smart scan” and click-on the below “SCAN” button.When the scan will be completed , you will be presented with a screen showing you the malware infections that Emsisoft Emergency Kit has detected.Make sure that everything is Checked (ticked) and click on the ‘Quarantine selected objects‘ button.

    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 Finish

    NEXT,please re-run a scan with HitmanPro and Malwarebytes.
    Good luck!

  3. the malware bytes software bombs out after running thru 120000 objects, tried it 4-5 times and bombs out at the same spot each time

  4. Hey man, thank you a lot. I really appreciate the effort you put into these tips ad they helped me personally. I am now able to access my computer and it’s files. If anyone is looking for a FREE way to rid your computer of the virus XP Defender 2013, read these tips and youwon’t be sorry. Thanks again Stelian! This article has and will help a lot of people and I sincerely appreciate your time and effort. God bless you and happy holidays!

  5. Thank you so much! People like yourself, that guide us through repairing viruses and malware are fantastic! We take it for granted until it hits us personally. Used my daughters mac to guide me through the process. My comp is now clean. I could not get emsisoft to work, but ran all the others. Thank you again! God bless !

    Dan

  6. Thank you so much!! It was so horrible when it took over my computer . :( but with the help of your article I fixed it without paying for a computer guy to fix it :)

  7. Thank you very much, Stelian Pilici!
    You saved me tons of time with the pre-made .reg file and screenshots.
    Very generous of you to post it online.
    Best regards,
    Ahmed.

  8. Thanks Stelian!It took me 1 hour and a half to complete all the scans but to your credit it also found other infections!Now I have a very clean computer…THANK YOU!!! :-*

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