svchost.exe has encountered a problem…
‘svchost.exe has encountered a problem’ is a fake Windows error alert that is part of rogue program called Windows Antivirus Pro. Most fake security software intends to mislead victims through the use of copied Windows alerts. Everything from the dialog box up to contents is reproduced with the slightest distinction possible. What separates the real and forged one is the final resolution it gives to end user. Legitimate Windows error box typically advise to send a report then restart the computer, while the fake ones may contain ‘Fix’ button. Attempting to fix the problem will open-up a new browser window; in fact it is the promotional web page containing product description and download link. Others may send naïve users directly to download link to obtain the trial version of Windows Antivirus Pro.
Once the rogue program is downloaded and installed, ‘svchost.exe has encountered a problem’ may stop appearing but another dozens of fake alerts will take its place. New phony messages states several virus infection and intruders are detected. Its objective was to convince user to pay for the licensed version of Windows Antivirus Pro before performing any fix to the system.
A fake ‘svchost.exe has encountered a problem’ can be stop without paying for the worthless software. Remedy may come with the help of legitimate anti-malware application. Running a full scan of an effective security product can detect and remove components that belong to rogue software.
Technical Details and Additional Information:
Damage Level: Medium
Systems Affected: Windows 9x, 2000, XP, Vista, Windows 7
Malware Behavior
Having a fake “svchost.exe has encountered a problem…” is an indication that rogue product is present on the system. This message will push victims to acquire the paid version of the endorse software. Full message of this alert reads:
svchost.exe has encountered a problem and needs to close. We are sorry for the inconvenience.
If you are in the middle of something, the information you were working on might be lost.
Please tell Microsoft about this problem…
How to Remove svchost.exe has encountered a problem…
1. Temporarily Disable System Restore (Windows Me/XP). [how to]
2. Open your antivirus application and update the virus definition file. This method ensures that your antivirus program can detect even newer variants of 'svchost.exe has encountered a problem'
3. Start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking.
- From a power-off state, turn on the computer and press F8 on your keyboard repeatedly.
- Your computer will display Windows Advanced Boot Options menu. Please select Safe Mode with Networking.
- The system will now boot Windows and loads only necessary drivers and files.
4. Open your antivirus program and run a full system scan. After the scan, delete all infected items. If unable, better place them in quarantine. Once the scan is complete, please proceed with the next step.