print version

Protection Center

For Information and Removal of Protection Center

Protection Center is a rogue antispyware program that scares the user into downloading the software after informing the user of a bogus infection on their computer. Protection Center seems legitimate because it bears the same name as Microsoft’s Protection Center, which assists users with removing malware that has infected their system. Microsoft’s Malware Protection Center provides advice, while this particular program infects the computer with a spyware program. Most individuals try to remove the spyware program manually. However, most of these manual techniques are not effective.

Protection Center is a hoax, and as it is not technically a virus so many of the antivirus software will not detect and remove it. Protection Center will begin by showing the user a series of security alerts that state that the user’s computer is infected with spyware and must be removed. The software will then prompt the user to download the software to remove the infected program. However, the software that is downloaded will actually be spyware itself. Through the system, hackers will gain passwords, credit card numbers, account numbers, log key strokes and a number of other activities. Downloading spyware can lead to identity theft.

Some versions will block internet access and the installation of any reputable antispyware programs that can assist the user in removing it. Protection Center is elaborate and extremely complex. The spyware infection works by installing a large number of files and registry entries into the computer. The program mimics the behavior of necessary programs on the computer. Therefore, a user who attempts to clean their registry may accidentally delete a file that is necessary rather than the spyware related file. Deleting a necessary file may cause a computer to become inoperable.

Protection Center also has the ability to recreate itself. Therefore, the program will reinstall itself whenever you restart your computer. Individuals, who suffer from this spyware infection, will find a difficult time removing it with a standard virus remover.

Microsoft describes the spyware as a Trojan that is a variant of Win32/FakeXPA. Their knowledge of the program is that it provides the user with fake alerts stating that the user has “malicious programs and viruses.” Individuals are prompted to pay money for software to remove the program. “Antivirus XP”, “AntivirusXP 2008”, “WinDefender 2008”, or “XP Antivirus” are each programs that are variants of the Trojan and attempt to impersonate Microsoft products. Be aware of these products and avoid them at all costs.
 

Protection Center Removal

Those who are infected are advised to use a reputable security program to remove it or seek professional help. There are very few programs that have been able to detect and remove Protection Center. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware (Malwarebytes has free malware removal) can usually remove the program. However, if you do have any problems I suggest contacting ParetoLogic's help desk and uploading your XoftSpySE log file to get personal assistance.  

Removing Protection Center Automatically/Safely

For free automatic removal we recommend using Malwarebytes Anti-Malware. This program is widely recommended by reputable third-party sites, so you can be reasonably confident of its ability to safely get rid of Protection Center and any hidden Trojans. As a precaution we recommend double checking your system with Spyware Doctor. This program requires paid registration to enable deletions, however it has a money back guaranteed and is the top of the line in malware removal. It should catch malware that evades Malwarebytes and block anything that tries to reinstal itself.

Remove Protection Center Now:

1. Download and install Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and Spyware Doctor  
2. Run Reimage PC Repair Online to check for malware damage and repair if required.
3. Run a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware.
4. Remove all the detected infections (free).
5. Run a scan with Spyware Doctor
6. Remove any remaining infections
7. Reboot and rescan with Spyware Doctor. Your computer should now be clean.

Important note: If Malwarebytes is blocked by malware then run Chameleon (Start Menu → All Programs → MalwareBytes' Anti-Malware → Tools → Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware Chameleon). If you need further help removing Protection Center please email us at info@removeadware.com.au or call for personal assistance on toll-free number 888-655-3453, within the USA and Canada.

 to top