How to remove Security Tool

Security Tool is a rogue anti-malware program that generates misleading alerts and fake virus warnings to make users buy its full version

Security Tool is a scareware^[1] program that targets less experienced computer users after being installed along with other free software from the internet. In other cases, users might think that it is a legitimate tool that can protect the PC, despite being a virus itself.

As soon as the Security Tool virus is installed, it immediately performs an alleged full system scan, and flags hundreds of fake threats. This behavior is deliberate and typical to rogue anti-spyware programs, as their main goal is to make users believe that their computers are infected with malware. As evident, it is merely a scam, as the Security Tool developers only want to make users purchase the registered version to remediate the bogus infections.

Besides showing fake scan results, Security Tool also engages in intrusive behavior, such as displaying pop-up messages and prompting users to buy its full version. Additionally, if the malware detects Mozilla Firefox or Internet Explorer installed on the system, it will block users from accessing the internet altogether. Finally, the victims will also not be able to launch any programs installed on the device because Security Tool malware will display a dialog message claiming more infections.

The malicious application is from the same family as Total security 2009 and System Security and many other similar rogue programs that work the same way: display fake scan results in order to make users purchase the registered version. Indeed, Security Tool closely reminds fake alerts that stem within browsers in tech support scam^[2] schemes. While browser-based alerts are entirely harmless if not interacted with, hoax programs inject their code into the operating system, similarly how malware behaves.

Upon successful installation, Security Tool will display the following message:

Warning!
Security Tool successfully installed!

Unfortunately, that also means that Windows system files are significantly altered, and the infection has been established. Before that, Security Tool malware will engage in the following changes of Windows OS:

• Creates a directory %COMMON_APPDATA% or %APPDATA% and inserts a randomly named executable;
• Modifies HKLM\SOFTWARE\MICROSOFT\WINDOWS\CURRENTVERSION\RUN registry key to allow its launch with each system boot;
• Creates shortcuts on the desktop and Start/Programs;
• Replaces desktop wallpaper without permission;
• Prevents users from opening most of the installed programs;
• Displays fake notifications on Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox, preventing Internet access.

Due to these changes, Security Tool removal might be difficult. Nevertheless, possibly the safest way to terminate the application is by entering Safe Mode with networking and performing a full system scan with tools like FortectIntego or SpyHunterCombo Cleaner.

Under no circumstances should you purchase the malicious application, as you will only waste your money. Besides, disclosing credit card details to scammers is not a good idea either, as it can result in serious privacy issues or even identity theft. Instead, you should immediately remove Security Tool malware from your computer, because you will not be able to operate it as usual.

Before installing the software you are not familiar with, read up on it online

There are two ways for the rogue anti-spyware to get onto your PC: you either installed it intentionally thinking it is a legitimate security tool or it got inside your machine during the installation of shareware/freeware. Both of these methods can be avoided, as long as enough attention is paid.

Before installing any applications you never heard of, you should always check more details about it online, preferably from multiple sites. Be aware that fake reviews can be created, so trusting one source is not adequate. Besides, check if the app you are about to install provides important documents, such as Privacy Police or EULA/Terms of Service. Security experts^[3] also recommend staying away from torrent sites, as malware is often bundled together with the offered apps. To avoid that, always decline all the deals/offers and pick Advanced/Custom settings so that you would be able to remove pre-selected boxes.

Delete Security Tool virus using reputable anti-spyware

When a non-malicious application is installed onto the operating system, it does not create malicious entries within the registry or other parts of the OS. For that reason, uninstalling programs via the Control Panel or the Apps list is a relatively easy task. However, due to its malicious nature, manual Security Tool removal might be just way too complicated for regular computer users.

Therefore, you should simply install powerful security software and perform a full system scan. As we previously stated, the Security Tool virus stops most of the other applications from being launched, so the legitimate anti-malware might not be able to start. In such a case, you should enter Safe Mode with Networking – a safe environment where the operation of most malware is temporarily disabled (note that such threats like rootkits^[4] might still run even in Safe Mode).

Once you get to the Safe Mode, perform a full system scan using anti-malware tool – it should remove Security Tool and all its components from the system.