Failed: virus detected in Chrome? This is how we fixed it
- The Failed virus detected error from Chrome is in fact a problem with your current antivirus.
- You can still try to bypass this issue by using a better, more reliable browser.
- A great solution is to unblock the browser and restore the quarantined files.
- Disabling Windows Defender can also fix this nuissance, at least temporarily.
Are you trying to download a certain file through Google Chrome, but you can’t successfully complete the operation?
If the download process cannot be completed because it’s presented by Google Chrome, or if when trying to open the downloaded package you receive an alert message, you need to follow the guidelines from below.
We will see why your browser is blocking your access and how to fix this general Windows 10 security problem.
Usually, you won’t be able to download or access a recently downloaded package if an antivirus program will detect a malicious file that might represent a security breach for your Windows 10 device.
So, you don’t have to blame Google Chrome but your own antivirus software as it is the one showing the Failed: virus detected alert message.
Anyway, if you know for sure that the implied file is 100% secured and that you are receiving a false positive from your antivirus, you can fix this issue in order to resume the initial download operation.
Of course, by applying the troubleshooting steps from below you can also return and use Google Chrome without receiving further security alerts and fix the Download failed: virus detected.
One more time, apply the guidelines below only if you know for sure that the files which will be downloaded aren’t representing any security risks for your Windows 10 system.
How do I fix Failed: virus detected message on Chrome?
- Switch to a browser with built-in security features
- Scan for PUP using a dedicated tool
- Unblock Chrome and restore quarantined files
- Disable Windows Defender
1. Switch a browser with built-in security features
Instead of trying to fix the virus alert on Google’s browser, how about trying an alternative browser that is rather similar but has far more security tools integrated.
We’re talking about the tool recommended below which is, at the moment, one of the most secure browsers out there.
Even though you’ll still need an antivirus for the local system protection, rest assured that your browsing experience won’t be tainted by any malicious software, adware, pop-ups, or browser hijackers.
Along with the built-in troubleshooter, this browser also brings the built-in VPN which is above the competitive solutions, and a variety of privacy-focused features.
So, if you want to keep your PC safe while browsing anonymously, check the download link below and give it a go.
Opera
Enjoy safe and secure browsing with Opera’s built-in ad-blocker and VPN with unlimited bandwidth.
2. Scan for PUP using a dedicated tool
No matter how many security extensions you install on chrome, they cannot compare with a full-fledged antivirus tool.
To make sure there’s no hidden, rogue extension that downloads something without your confirmation, we suggest checking for PUPs.
A PUP, in opposed to cute puppies, is a significantly hastier and a possible threat to your computer.
Also known as junkware, this is an add-on or a software wrapper that you most likely did not want to have installed on your computer. A software wrapper is a third-party tool that downloads the product you choose, while also installing some extras, such as toolbars or adware.
Changes to your web browser’s homepage and search settings may also be made by those extras.
But don’t worry, you can get rid of it right away using specialized software. To make your job easier, we’ve compiled a list of the easiest and reliable PUP removal programs to ensure that the task is done properly.
To give you a glimpse of what you will find in our list above, ESET Internet Security is one of the specialized tools.
Before software is installed on your computer, ESET may detect potentially unwanted, harmful, and suspicious extra add-ons attached to it.
3. Unblock Chrome and restore quarantined files
- Open Windows Defender on your computer.
- From the main window click on Protection history.
- In the next window click on View details.
- The files which have been quarantined will be listed there.
- Find the program that was blocked without any apparent reasons.
- You can choose to restore the implied file if you know that it can be trusted.
Now, for making sure that this file won’t get detected as potentially malicious software, you can add a particular exclusion within Windows Defender.
Or, and we recommend you do this, you can permanently disable Windows Defender.
Of course, afterward, you must choose to install a new security program in order to keep everything safe and secured all the time.
But this time choose a better security solution that gets daily updates and which can properly identify the files that are dangerous for your computer.
4. Disable Windows Defender
4.1 Disable Windows Defender using the Local Group Policy
- Press Windows key + R keyboard hotkeys in order to bring the Run command.
- There, type gpedit.msc and press Enter.
- From Local Group Policy click on Computer Configuration, then extend Administrative Templates and go to Windows Components; finally, access Windows Defender.
- From the main panel double-click on Turn off Windows Defender.
- For disabling Windows Defender choose Enabled from the window that will be displayed on your computer.
- Apply and save your changes.
- Reboot your Windows 10 system in the end.
4.2 Disable Windows Defender from System Settings
- Press the Windows key + I keyboard hotkeys to open the Settings app.
- Choose Update & security.
- Click on Windows Security from the left pane, then click on Open Windows Security.
- Now click on Virus & threat protection.
- Under the Virus & threat protection settings click on Manage settings.
- Toggle the Real-time protection button to Off.
Now you can return to Google Chrome and resume your download process as you will be able to use your files without experiencing the Failed: virus detected alert message.
However, keep in mind that you mustn’t use your device without using a dedicated antivirus program. So, choose wisely in order to set up a program that has an updated virus database.
Otherwise, you can experience false-positive security alert messages, just like the Download failed: virus detected error detailed during the lines from above.
If you need a powerful antivirus, you can also take a look at our selection including the best antiviruses with unlimited validity to install on your PC.
With that said, we can conclude this article. We hope you managed to fix the Chrome failed virus detected issue using our solutions. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Frequently Asked Questions
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If you notice that Google Chrome is acting sluggish, follow this guide to learn how to speed it up.
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If you try accessing Chrome but it doesn’t respond, you should follow the steps written in this guide.
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Yes, Google Chrome works very well with VPNs. In fact, we have a list with the best VPNs that you can use with Chrome.
