Remove Win 7 Defender virus (Removal Instructions)

Photo of author

Written by: Stelian Pilici

Published on:

Win 7 Defender is a computer virus,which pretends to be a legitimate security program and claims that malware has been detected on your computer,however if you try to remove these infections,it will state that you need to buy this product before being able to do so.
Apart from the bogus scan results,Win 7 Defender will display other fake security alerts that are designed to think that your data is at risk or that your computer is severely infected.These messages include:

System Security Alert
Vulnerabilities found
Background scan for security breaches was finished. Serious issues were detected. Safeguard your system against exploits, malware and viruses right now by activating Proactive Defense.
System Security Alert
Unknown program is scanning your system registry right now! Identity theft detected.

In reality, none of the reported issues are real, and are only used to scare you into buying Win 7 Defender and stealing your personal financial information.

As part of its self-defense mechanism,Win 7 Defender 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 ,Win 7 Defender it will display a bogus notification in which will report that the file is infected,in an attempt to scare you.The text of this alert is:

Win 7 Defender Firewall Alert
Firefox.exe is infected with Trojan-Clicker.Js.Agent.op. Private data can be stolen by third parties, including credit card details and passwords.

If your computer is infected with Win 7 Defender,then you are seeing this screens:
Image of Win 7 Defender

Win 7 Defender malware

Image of Win 7 Defender Firewall Alert
Win 7 Defender is a scam and you should 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 bank and dispute the charge stating that the program is a scam and a computer virus.

Win 7 Defender – Virus Removal Instructions

STEP 1: Remove Win 7 Defender malicious files with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware

Malwarebytes Chameleon technologies will allow us to install and run a Malwarebytes Anti-Malware scan without being blocked by Win 7 Defender.
This infection will not allow you to open your web browser, so you’ll need to right click on the Internet Explorer’s icon or any other browser’s icon, and select Run As (Windows XP) or Run as Administrator (Windows Vista, 7 and 8).This should allow you to open your web browser, so that you’ll be able to download Malwarebytes from the below link.
If you still can’t open your web browser, you’ll need to download this registry fix on a clean computer and then transfer the program to the infected computer. You can transfer the files via a CD/DVD, external drive, or USB flash drive.

  1. Download Malwarebytes Chameleon  from the below link, and extract it to a folder in a convenient location.
    MALWAREBYTES CHAMELEON DOWNLOAD LINK  (This link will open a new web page from where you can download Malwarebytes Chameleon)
    [Image: Extract Malwarebytes Chameleon utility]
  2. Make certain that your infected computer is connected to the internet and then open the Malwarebytes Chameleon folder, and double-click on the svchost.exe file.
    [Image: Double click on svchost.exe]
    IF Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will not start, double-click on the other renamed files until you find one will work, which will be indicated by a black DOS/command prompt window.
  3. Follow the onscreen instructions to press a key to continue and Chameleon will proceed to download and install Malwarebytes Anti-Malware for you.
    Malwarebytes Chameleon press key
  4. Once it has done this, it will update Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, and you’ll need to click OK when it says that the database was updated successfully.
    Malwarebytes Chameleon updating its database
  5. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now attempt to kill all the malicious process associated with Win 7 Defender.Please keep in mind that this process can take up to 10 minutes, so please be patient.
    Malwarebytes Chameleon killing malware
  6. Next, Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will automatically open and perform a Quick scan for Win 7 Defender malicious files as shown below.
    [Image: Malwarebytes Anti-Malware scanning for Win 7 Defender]
  7. Upon completion of the scan, click on Show Result
    [Image: Malwarebytes Anti-Malware scan results]
  8. You will now be presented with a screen showing you the malware infections that Malwarebytes Anti-Malware has detected.
    Make sure that everything is Checked (ticked),then click on the Remove Selected button.
    [Image:Malwarebytes removing virus]
  9. After your computer restarts, open Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and perform a Full System scan to verify that there are no remaining threats

STEP 2: Remove Win 7 Defender rootkit with HitmanPro

In some cases,Win 7 Defender will also install a rootkit on victims computer.To remove this rootkit we will use HitmanPro.

  1. Download HitmanPro from the below link,then double click on it to start this program.
    HITMANPRO DOWNLOAD LINK (This link will open a new web page from where you can download HitmanPro)
    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)
  2. HitmanPro will start and you’ll need to follow the prompts (by clicking on the Next button) to start a system scan with this program.
    HitmanPro scanner
    HitmanPro installation
  3. HitmanPro will start scanning your computer for Win 7 Defender malicious files as seen in the image below.
    HitmanPro scan after Win 7 Defender
  4. Once the scan is complete,you’ll see a screen which will display all the infected files that this utility has detected, and you’ll need to click on Next to remove this malicious files.
    HitmanPro scan results
  5. Click Activate free license to start the free 30 days trial and remove all the malicious files from your computer.
    HitmanPro 30 days activation button

STEP 3: Double check for any left over infections with Emsisoft Emergency Kit

  1. You can download Emsisoft Emergency Kit from the below link,then extract it to a folder in a convenient location.
    EMSISOFT EMERGENCY KIT DOWNLOAD LINK ((This link will open a new web page from where you can download Emsisoft Emergency Kit)
  2. Open the Emsisoft Emergency Kit folder and double click EmergencyKitScanner.bat, then allow this program to update itself.
    EmergencyKitScanner.bat file
  3. After the Emsisoft Emergency Kit has update has completed,click on the Menu tab,then select Scan PC.
    Emsisoft Emergency Kit scan tab
  4. Select Smart scan and click on the SCAN button to search for Win 7 Defender malicious files.
    Emsisoft Emergency Kit smart scan
  5. When the scan will be completed,you will be presented with a screen reporting which malicious files has Emsisoft detected on your computer, and you’ll need to click on Quarantine selected objects to remove them.
    Emsisoft Emergency Kit removing malware

If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove Win 7 Defender 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.

29 thoughts on “Remove Win 7 Defender virus (Removal Instructions)”

  2. Thank you so much. I think you just saved my marriage. haha This worked wonderfully and I will tell everyone about it Can’t thank you enough

  4. Hello Manon,
    You’ll need to use a USB stick to transfer all the files on the infected computer.

  5. Ik heb kan geen verbinding krijgen met internet want dan krijg ik de link van window 7 defeneder. Hoe kan ik dat oplossen? alvast bedankt

  6. Hello Carma,
    Lets try to remove this infection in another way.
    STEP 1: Run a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware in Chameleon Mode:

    1. Download Malwarebytes Chameleon from here and extract it to a folder in a convenient location
    2. Make certain that your PC is connected to the internet and then open the folder where you extracted Chameleon,next right click on the Chameleon help file and select “Run As Administrator.Then follow the onscreen instructions to use it.
    3. If the Chameleon help file itself will not open, then double-click each file one by one until you find one that works, which will be indicated by a black DOS/command prompt window.
    4. Follow the onscreen instructions to press a key to continue and Chameleon will proceed to download and install Malwarebytes Anti-Malware for you
    5. Once it has done this, it will attempt to update Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, click OK when it says that the database was updated successful
    6. Next, Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will automatically open and perform a Quick scan
    7. Upon completion of the scan, if anything has been detected, click on Show Result
    8. Have Malwarebytes Anti-Malware remove any threats that are detected and click Yes if prompted to reboot your computer to allow the removal process to complete
    9. After your computer restarts, open Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and perform a Full System scan to verify that there are no remaining threats

    STEP 2: 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.
    4. Next we will need to restore your shortcuts, so click on the ShortcutsFix button and allow the program to run.

    STEP 3 Please perform a scan with HitmanPro as seen on the guide.
    If you are having problems starting this program please use the ForceBreach mode as described in the guide.

    STEP 4: 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

    Waiting for your reply to tell me how everything is running!
    Good luck…

  7. when i download Rkill, i get the program 7zip but i dont see the icon explorer.exe and when i run 7zip its nothing like what you say i nee. ive tried to download it from both links youve posted. any ideas?

  10. OMG….almost lost my money on this malware. I almost use my card to buy it

    But suddenly my Asus laptop formats the whole HD. Now it’s a new laptop….argh……. why don’t i know this is a malware!!!??!?!?

    Thanks for the info anyway, now I know what to do when some malware comes up

  15. Hello, not sure if my last comment posted. I am stuck on step 1. I have run the rkill but am not able to run anything else in .exe. Please help? Thanks

  16. Hello Kari,
    Download Rill and Malwarebytes onto a USB stick and then go to the infected computer and while in Safe Mode with Networking, run the previously downloaded programs.

  17. Thanks!!!! It worked :) woohoo. I didn’t do the Hitman part, hopefully it will still be fine without doing that. I might do it later.

  18. My Internet doesn’t work so how can I download the registry fix program and I am on my sisters computer is there any way I can use some thing on hers and then download it to mine? Thank you!

  20. Hello Melanie,
    Some variants of this virus won’t allow you to open your browser,can you transfer Rkill to the infected computer with a USB or CD ?
    Waiting for your reply.

  22. Hi Stelian,
    I’m having issues downloading the RKill & Malwarebytes Programs, says, “Firefox can’t establish a connection to the server…” any suggestions?

  23. Hello Barry,
    You’ll need to download Rkill on a clean computer and then transfer the program to the infected computer. You can transfer the files via a CD/DVD, external drive, or USB flash drive.
    Run it and then you’ll be able to download Malwarebytes to perform the removal guide.

  24. Thank you thank you thank you to whomever posted this! It worked beautifully and the infected computer is back in action.

  25. Thank you! Successfully removed virus using above programs in the sequence that is outlined. Also Found that it is important to delete the virus files from quarantine after scanning with malwarebytes to completely remove virus files. Finally, running HitmanPro right after malwarebytes (before restarting) is critical to completely remove virus files from root directory.

  26. Had some problems while trying to run HitmanPro but I’ve manage to find a solution… Thank you!Your site is awesome!

  27. Thank you so much Stelian! Got very scared when I saw that I couldn’t open any programs!
    thanks!

  28. I run my own local computer repair shop.I repair both hardware and other operating systems related issues, however most of my business is malware related problems.

    ME TOO !!!!! in cb/Omaha neb area

    1st time in years I had to search 4 help to clean a mackine
    had win7 2013 plus virus…. wouldn’t let me backdoor in with cmd safe mode to remove it
    i was surprized….thanks for the new tools.

    You know win7 needs a hardening program…. no changes to os while running ….to change shut down ….restart….enter key …make ckanges …lock code restart

    like old ms steady state only better!
    steve

Leave a Comment

Previous

Remove XP Defender (Removal Instructions)

Next

Remove Vista Defender (Removal Instructions)