What Is WinFixer and How Does It Work?

WinFixer is a malware type that disguises itself as a diagnostic tool download which claims to repair corrupt files and computer system problems in your PC's operating system. This type of scareware presents itself as a useful utility for enhancing the performance of your PC and stabilizing the operating system when in reality it is a rogue piece of software that can do significant damage to your computer system.

How WinFixer Works

WinFixer installs itself into your PC's registry so it can inundate your computer screen with a multitude of bogus PC problems in an effort to scare you into purchasing the full paid version of the software. WinFixer malware is a type of Trojan that can accompany other Trojans that are from the Vundo family which are difficult to remove from your operating system once they have been installed.

WinFixer installs itself into your PC as a result of visiting a website that has been infected with this type of malware. The first sign of the malware is a pop-up window that contains a message that claims your PC has been infected with malware and then encourages you to click to run a free scan. The software can install itself when you take any type of clicking action on the window including clicking on the "X" to try and eliminate the window.

Once the "free version" of the software is installed it will continue to send pop-up messages that claim there are multiple problems with your PC and that you should install an upgraded version for a fee. WinFixer will also attach itself to your registry files so it can recreate itself every time you boot up your PC.

How to Remove WinFixer

The best way to remove WinFixer is to first disable its capability to start itself every time you boot your computer.

Disable Startup: To stop WinFixer from starting up, click on the "Start" icon located on the main toolbar of your desktop. Choose "Run" from the menu and then type "MSCONFIG" into the dialog box and then press "Enter." When the new window appears, choose the Startup tab and then locate the WinFixer entry and remove the check from the box that is located to the left. Click "OK" and then proceed to restart your computer. This will disable the WinFixer startup utility.

Disable WinFixer Process: Once you have restarted your computer system press the Ctrl and Alt keys on your keyboard and then press the Delete key to open the Task Manager window. Choose the Processes tab and then choose each process that is associated with WinFixer and then click "End Process."

Remove WinFixer Registry Files: Remove all of the WinFixer registry files by clicking on "Start" on your main toolbar and choosing "Run" from the menu. Type "regedit" into the dialog box to open the registry editor. Choose all of the registry keys that are associated with WinFixer and delete them from the registry.

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