Remove Antivirus Security Pro (Removal Guide)

Antivirus Security Pro is a computer virus, which masquerades as genuine security software, while actually reporting non-existent malware threats in order to scare the user into paying for this rogue security software.
[Image: Antivirus Security Pro]

What is Antivirus Security Pro?

Antivirus Security Pro is a rogue anti-virus program from the Rogue.WinWebSec family of computer infections. This program is classified as a rogue because it pretends to be an anti-virus program, but will instead displays bogus scan results, report non-existing computer infections, and does not allow you to run your normal applications.
In this case, not only is Antivirus Security Pro going to disrupt your system, it’s going to try and trick you into making a purchase using your credit card.
Antivirus Security Pro appears in the form of a fake Windows warning on your computer system that reads you have a specific number of viruses on your computer (usually in the hundreds) and that this software has detected those viruses. To get rid of them you must purchase the full-version of Antivirus Security Pro. It’s important to remember that by purchasing the “claimed full version to remove the viruses” you will be submitting your personal information to unscrupulous persons and may also end up being a victim of credit card or identity fraud or theft.

How did Antivirus Security Pro got on my computer?

Antivirus Security Pro is distributed through several means. Malicious websites, or legitimate websites that have been hacked, can infect your machine through exploit kits that use vulnerabilities on your computer to install this rogue antivirus without your permission.
Another method used to propagate Antivirus Security Pro is spam email containing infected attachments or links to malicious websites. Cyber-criminals spam out an email, with forged header information, tricking you into believing that it is from a shipping company like DHL or FedEx. The email tells you that they tried to deliver a package to you, but failed for some reason. Sometimes the emails claim to be notifications of a shipment you have made. Either way, you can’t resist being curious as to what the email is referring to – and open the attached file (or click on a link embedded inside the email). And with that, your computer is infected with the Antivirus Security Pro virus.
The threat may also be downloaded manually by tricking the user into thinking they are installing a useful piece of software, for instance a bogus update for Adobe Flash Player or another piece of software.
The Antivirus Security Pro infection is also prevalent on peer-to-peer file sharing websites and is often packaged with pirated or illegally acquired software.

Am I infected with Antivirus Security Pro virus?

Some examples of the interface, fake alerts, fake scanning results, and pop-ups displayed by Antivirus Security Pro are shown below:
[Image: Antivirus Security Pro virus]

[Image: Antivirus Security Pro Alert]

Activation codes for Antivirus Security Pro

As an optional step,you can use any of the following license keys to register Antivirus Security Pro and stop the fake alerts.
Antivirus Security Pro Activation code: AA39754E-715219CE

Please keep in mind that entering the above registration code will NOT remove Antivirus Security Pro from your computer , instead it will just stop the fake alerts so that you’ll be able to complete our removal guide more easily.


How to remove Antivirus Security Pro virus (Removal Guide)

This page is a comprehensive guide, which will remove the Antivirus Security Pro infection from your your computer. Please perform all the steps in the correct order. If you have any questions or doubt at any point, STOP and ask for our assistance.
STEP 1: Start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking
STEP 2: Run RKill to terminate Antivirus Security Pro malicious processes
STEP 3: Remove Antivirus Security Pro virus with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free
STEP 4: Remove Antivirus Security Pro rootkit with RogueKiller
STEP 5:  Remove Antivirus Security Pro infection with HitmanPro

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. When the computer starts you will see your computer’s hardware being listed. When you see this information start to gently tap the F8 key repeatedly until you are presented with the Windows XP, Vista or 7 Advanced Boot Options.
    [Image: F8 key]
    If you are using Windows 8, press the Windows key + C, and then click Settings. Click Power, hold down Shift on your keyboard and click Restart, then click on Troubleshoot and select Advanced options. In the Advanced Options screen, select Startup Settings, then click on Restart.
  3. If you are using Windows XP, Vista or 7 in the Advanced Boot Options screen, use the arrow keys to highlight Safe Mode with Networking , and then press ENTER.
    [Image: Safemode.jpg]\
    If you are using Windows 8, press 5  on your keyboard to Enable Safe Mode with Networking.
    Windows will start in Safe Mode with Networking.

STEP 2: Run RKill to terminate the malicious processes associated with Antivirus Security Pro

RKill is a program that will attempt to terminate all malicious processes associated with Antivirus Security Pro, so that we will be able to perform the next step without being interrupted by this malicious software.
Because this utility will only stop Antivirus Security Pro 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 Antivirus Security Pro won’t block this utility from running.
    RKILL DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will automatically download RKILL renamed as iExplore.exe)
  2. Double click on iExplore.exe to start RKill and stop any processes associated with Antivirus Security Pro.
    [Image: RKILL Program]
  3. RKill will now start working in the background, please be patient while the program looks for Antivirus Security Pro malicious process and tries to end them.
    [Image: RKILL stoping malware]
    If you get a message from Antivirus Security Pro stating that RKill is an infection, and then closes this utility, leave the warning on the screen and then run RKill again.
    By not closing the warning, this typically will allow you to bypass the malware trying to protect itself so that RKill can terminate Antivirus Security Pro.
  4. When the Rkill utility has completed its task, it will generate a log. Do not reboot your computer after running RKill as the malware programs will start again.
    [Image: RKill Report]

STEP 3: Remove Antivirus Security Pro virus with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware FREE

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is a powerful on-demand scanner which will remove Antivirus Security Pro malicious files from your computer.

  1. You can download Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free from the below link, then double-click on the icon named mbam-setup.exe to install this program.
    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. When the installation begins, keep following the prompts in order to continue with the setup process, then at the last screen click on the Finish button.
    [Image: Malwarebytes Anti-Malware final installation screen]
  3. On the Scanner tab, select Perform quick scan, and then click on the Scan button to start searching for the Antivirus Security Pro malicious files.
    [Image: Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Quick Scan]
  4. Malwarebytes’ Anti-Malware will now start scanning your computer for Antivirus Security Pro virus as shown below.
    [Image: Malwarebytes Anti-Malware scanning for Antivirus Security Pro
  5. When the Malwarebytes Anti-Malware scan has finished, click on the Show Results button.
    [Image: Malwarebytes Anti-Malware scan results]
  6. You will now be presented with a screen showing you the computer infections that Malwarebytes Anti-Malware has detected. Make sure that everything is Checked (ticked), then click on the Remove Selected button.
    [Image: Malwarebytes Anti-Malwar removing Antivirus Security Pro virus]
  7. Once your computer will restart in Windows regular mode, open Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and perform a Full System scan to verify that there are no remaining threats.

STEP 4: Remove Antivirus Security Pro rootkit with RogueKiller

RogueKiller is a utility that will scan for the Antivirus Security Pro rootkit, registry keys and any other malicious files on your computer.

  1. You can download the latest official version of RogueKiller from the below link.
    ROGUEKILLER DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will open a new webpage from where you can 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,  then click on the Scan button to perform a system scan.
    [Image: RogueKiller scaning for Antivirus Security Pro virus]
  3. After the scan has completed, press the Delete button to remove Antivirus Security Pro malicious registry keys or files.
    [Image: RogueKiller Detele button]

STEP 5: Remove Antivirus Security Pro infection with HitmanPro

HitmanPro is a second opinion scanner, designed to rescue your computer from malware (viruses, trojans, rootkits, etc.) that have infected your computer despite all the security measures you have taken (such as anti virus software, firewalls, etc.).

  1. You can download HitmanPro from the below link:
    HITMANPRO DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will open a web page from where you can download HitmanPro)
  2. Double-click on the file named HitmanPro.exe (for 32-bit versions of Windows) or HitmanPro_x64.exe (for 64-bit versions of Windows). When the program starts you will be presented with the start screen as shown below.
    HitmanPro scanner
    Click on the Next button, to install HitmanPro on your computer.
    HitmanPro installation
  3. HitmanPro will now begin to scan your computer for Antivirus Security Pro trojan.
    HitmanPro detecting for Antivirus Security Pro virus
  4. When it has finished it will display a list of all the malware that the program found as shown in the image below. Click on the Next button, to remove Antivirus Security Pro virus.
    HitmanPro scan results
  5. Click on the Activate free license button to begin the free 30 days trial, and remove all the malicious files from your computer.
    [Image: HitmanPro 30 days activation button]

Your computer should now be free of the Antivirus Security Pro infection. If your current anti-virus solution let this infection through, you may want to consider purchasing the PRO version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future, and perform regular computer scans with HitmanPro.
If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove Antivirus Security Pro from your machine, please start a new thread in our Malware Removal Assistance forum.

10 Rules to Avoid Online Scams

Here are 10 practical safety rules to help you avoid malware, online shopping scams, crypto scams, and other online fraud. Each tip includes a quick “if you already got hit” action.

  1. Stop and verify before you click, log in, download, or pay.

    warning sign

    Most scams win by creating urgency. Verify using a trusted method: type the website address yourself, use the official app, or call a known number (not the one in the message).

    If you already clicked: close the page, do not enter passwords, and run a malware scan.

  2. Keep your operating system, browser, and apps updated.

    updates guide

    Updates patch security holes used by malware and malicious ads. Turn on automatic updates where possible.

    If you saw a scary “update now” pop-up: close it and update only through your device settings or the official app store.

  3. Use layered protection: antivirus plus an ad blocker.

    shield guide

    Antivirus helps block malware. An ad blocker reduces scam redirects, phishing pages, and malvertising.

    If your browser is acting weird: remove unknown extensions, reset the browser, then run a full scan.

  4. Install apps, software, and extensions only from official sources.

    install guide

    Avoid cracked software, “keygens,” and random downloads. During installs, choose Custom/Advanced and decline bundled offers you do not recognize.

    If you already installed something suspicious: uninstall it, restart, and scan again.

  5. Treat links and attachments as untrusted by default.

    cursor sign

    Phishing often impersonates delivery services, banks, and popular brands. If it is unexpected, do not open attachments or log in through the message.

    If you entered credentials: change the password immediately and enable 2FA.

  6. Shop safely: research the store, then pay with protection.

    trojan horse

    Be cautious with brand-new stores, “closing sale” stories, and prices that make no sense. Prefer credit cards or PayPal for dispute options. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, and crypto payments.

    If you already paid: contact your card issuer or PayPal quickly to dispute the transaction.

  7. Crypto rule: never pay a “fee” to withdraw or recover money.

    lock sign

    Common patterns include fake profits, then “tax,” “gas,” or “verification” fees. Another is a “recovery agent” who demands upfront crypto.

    If you already sent crypto: stop paying, save evidence (wallet addresses, TXIDs, chats), and report the scam to the platform used.

  8. Secure your accounts with unique passwords and 2FA (start with email).

    lock sign

    Use a password manager and unique passwords for every account. Enable 2FA using an authenticator app when possible.

    If you suspect an account takeover: change passwords, sign out of all devices, and review recent logins and recovery settings.

  9. Back up important files and keep one backup offline.

    backup sign

    Backups protect you from ransomware and device failure. Keep at least one backup on an external drive that is not always connected.

    If you suspect infection: do not connect backup drives until the system is clean.

  10. If you think you are a victim: stop losses, document evidence, and escalate fast.

    warning sign

    Move quickly. Speed matters for disputes, account recovery, and limiting damage.

    • Stop payments and contact: do not send more money or respond to the scammer.
    • Call your bank or card issuer: block transactions, replace the card if needed, and start a dispute or chargeback.
    • Secure your email first: change the email password, enable 2FA, and remove unfamiliar recovery options.
    • Secure other accounts: change passwords, enable 2FA, and log out of all sessions.
    • Scan your device: remove suspicious apps or extensions, then run a full malware scan.
    • Save evidence: screenshots, emails, order pages, tracking pages, wallet addresses, TXIDs, and chat logs.
    • Report it: to the payment provider, marketplace, social platform, exchange, or wallet service involved.

These rules are intentionally simple. Most online losses happen when decisions are rushed. Slow down, verify independently, and use payment methods and account controls that give you recourse.

42 thoughts on “Remove Antivirus Security Pro (Removal Guide)”

  1. Thanks for your help and advice. The virus seemed to have been through WhatApp which showed a voicemail from my husband. It was not from him but the virus took over. I found your tutorial after tremendous frustration and followed the steps. So now I can use my computer again with one change which is that I had to download a different browser to access my email. Again, thank you very much!

  2. Hello,
    Got as far as step 2 from the instructions above and double-clicked on iExplorer.exe but getting an error msg as follows: “error opening file for writing” and cannot go any further. Can you please assist?

  3. Thank you so much!!! This is a nasty piece of software and I would have been a blubbering wreck if I hadn’t quickly seen this removal guide.

    I saw another version of your advice before you had put up steps 1 and 2, so I actually just went in at step 3 – had an uninfected laptop and downloaded malwarebytes onto a USB and got it onto the infected machine that way, as antivirus sec pro would not let me get access to your website…probably because:

    1) I couldn’t remember my administrator password – the PC is about 9 years old and still running XP

    2) I was using IE8 – I know, I know…I’ve switched over to Chrome now :-)

    So thankfully Malwarebytes stopped it dead and I was able to delete everything. The run with HitmanPro did not pick up anything. I have also being ultra paranoid spent this morning changing all my online passwords in the uninfected machine.

    A couple of questions, if it’s not too much of a problem.

    – I didn’t see the Roguekiller step either – should I go ahead and do that too? To be safe?

    – I’m currently running my Microsoft Security Essentials software as well and it appears to have picked up some trojans and rogues that clearly arrived with the antivirus sec pro package, but both Malwarebytes and HitmanPro didn’t pick them up. However, it states that they are in Quarantine – so they may have been placed there and can be forgotten. Is that wise?

    Again many, many thanks for the guide.

  4. Thank you for all the help My wife made a one click mistake and this piece of garbage got ahold of her laptop. It was locked up until I used your activation number. Now, I” go follow the rest of your clear and concise instructions.

  5. Thank you very very much for your help. Very well explained with all links needed. You made my day :)

  6. Thanks for all yoru help! It worked and my boss was so impressed with how i handled this all by myself xoxoxox

  7. I did it! Thanks so much for posting this information. I stumbled a few times. However, I kept with it and, after 4 hours, I am FREE! :-)))))

  8. Stelian, Super thanks for the fabulous help! I got infected yesterday by an email from “WhatsApp” which said it contained a voice mail… Since I have relatives in other countries who use this app, I thought it might be from them! OMG! Horrible experience… I just spent 9hours dealing with this (lots of data and external drives, etc). Since I work at home your procedures were truly a life saver! Just doing my last (I hope) HitmanPro scan right now…

  9. Seriously cannot thank you enough for saving my new laptop!!! :D thank you so much!!! Your guide is simple to follow and your images definitely made my life a lot easier!!! YOU’RE A HERO!!!

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