Remove Win7 Defender virus (Uninstall Guide)

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Written by: Stelian

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Win7 Defender is a computer virus,which pretends to be a legitimate antivirus 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.
There are a number of ways in which Win7 Defender got on your computer, but the most common is through fake pop-up windows and fake alerts that indicate that your computer is infected. These alerts attempt to scare the user into downloading the software to remove the fake virus or resolve the fake issue,however in reality you have downloaded and installed this rogue antivirus.
Other common ways that Win7 Defender gets on your computer include:

  • Fake browser plugins and infected browser toolbars
  • Infected email attachments.
  • Drive-by-downloads which will exploit a vulnerability in Java or Adobe software.

Once installed on your computer Win7 Defender will start a bogus security scan which will report that trojans,rootkits and  other malware were found 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.
As you have probably realized by now,Win7 Defender is a scam, and its alerts are only meant to scare you into buying this malicious product.
As part of its self-defense mechanism,Win7 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.
Win7 Defender has modified your Windows files associations and now,whenever you are trying to any programs that have a .exe extension ,it will display a bogus notification in which will report that the file is infected,in an attempt to scare you.

Win7 Defender Firewall Alert
iexplore.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 Win7 Defender virus,then you are seeing the following screens:
Image of Win7 Defender

[Image: Win7 Defender virus]

Image of Win7 Defender Alert

win7-defender-firewall-alert

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.

Win7 Defender – Virus Removal Guide

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.

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.

20 thoughts on “Remove Win7 Defender virus (Uninstall Guide)”

  1. Hi Stelian,
    Dude you saved my life !! I’m a big fan of FC Barcelona too!

    Thanks a lot and God bless you

  2. I just wanted to give you a mad prop… this walkthrough gave an amazing guidance! thank you very much for helping people and not always requiring a fee upfront to just get rid of crap like we always see!! this was amazing! Thank You so much! i cant express how meaningful this is. if there is a donation part of this website and i dont know pease let me know! you need to be recommended and have some sort of comensation for services! i mean this computer is running better than ever! there was 3 virus’s on here according to your program and it wiped them out i have done two complete scans of this computer just to be sure and the first one found 1 and second found none! i just i dont know what else to say but thank you i Like your facebook page just because of it! this was great help! Thanks Again!

  3. Hi,
    My laptop got hit with Win7 Defender Plus 2030 malware this morning and it is completely blocking any attempt to use Internet. Using another “clean” laptop, I downloaded chameleon 1.62.1.1000 on a flash drive and followed your instructions. Ran all versions of Chameleon with no luck. Then I tried HitmanPro and used the “force breach mode”. Again lo luck. Do I need a different version of the software? Thanks in advance.

    • Hello Chaks,
      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!

  4. Thank-you. Step-by-step instructions were very well explained. Screen shots were very helpful also. Virus gone :)

  6. Helping a friend out on this one. Thought a reformat was most likely needed until this article. Spot on PERFECT!!!! Fixed and running in no time!!! Thanks greatly for the post!!

    Eric

  7. Hey many thanks for your great step by step guide. The way i did it was to open your tutorial from the infected pc in admin mode and simply clicked on your hyperlinks in order to download all the kit.

    Thanks

    Greg

  9. Hi Stelian,
    Just wanted to say a quick thank-you for the above info – PC is back up & running minus the virus! :-)

  10. Hi, I can’t get past the 2nd step. Having downloaded Rkill on a clean computer and transferred it over using a flash drive, I can’t load it on the infected computer because WIN7 blocks it just as it blocks everything else. When I try ‘run as administrator’ it just does nothing. Is there any way around this?

  11. I was able to run any program that I needed while my computer was infected by right clicking and running it as administrator. I was then able to do a system restore to a previous point without this virus. That was my work around hope it can help somebody! You can also use this administrator trick to follow the instructions to this tutorial if you get stuck!

  13. Thank you so much.
    I have an essay deadline to meet in the next week and half and I am working to a very tight schedule.
    I thought that I would never able to get it done, but thanks to you I can just get on with writing my essay.
    Kind regards,

    Mary Poppins

  14. Hi thanks for the info….i do not have a second computer…any other suggestion…..can I download it to Sim card on smart phone..then tranfers to laptop..is that possible…hope to hear back from ju…thanks

    • Hello Anita,
      Lets try anothe way…. On the infected computer, right click on the Internet Explorer’s icon, or any other browser’s icon, and select Run As or Run as Administrator. If you are using Windows XP, you will be prompted to select a user and enter its password. It is suggested that you attempt to login as the Administrator user. For Windows 7 or Windows Vista, you will be prompted to enter your Administrator account password. This should allow your browser to open where you can then download Rkill from the above link and save it to a folder that your infected account can access.

  15. Using the steps above I am unable to get past Step 2. Each time I attempt to download Registryfix or go to the Internet the Win7 Defender program blocks “pops up” and blocks access…. any suggestions… anyone?

    • Hello Larry,
      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.

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