What is MsPMSPSv.exe? Should I remove it?

MSPMSPSV.exe – a relatively safe file used by Windows Media Player, although it is not essential

MSPMSPSV.exe is a process used by Windows Media Player but is not an essential Windows component. It runs silently in the background and users can spot it in the Task Manager. The file is usually injected via certain updates for WMP. The process allows for the SDMI protocol (Secure Digital Music Initiative) to be utilized when dealing with music media files. The executable is located in C:\Windows\System32 folder or sometimes in a subfolder of C:\Windows. The known sizes are between 53kB to 82kB large. However, just like any other executable, it can be closely related to spyware or other malicious applications.

Although MSPMSPSV.exe is not an essential Windows component, it is necessary when dealing with MS Digital Rights Management. This allows users to rip Copy Protected discs into a portable device or a CD/DVD. 

If you do not use Windows Media Player or do not want the additional RAM space to be taken by this process – disable the service. If this causes your operating system to show you error messages or the executable comes back – it might be a sign of malware infection.

Therefore, users are prompted to scan their machines with reputable anti-spyware software like FortectIntego or Malwarebytes. Remember that any executables can be malicious, as viruses are capable of replacing or duplicating any process running on your machine. In such case, you need to hurry MSPMSPSV.exe removal.

Users reported that the process could be associated with spyware applications. These malicious programs are capable of recording keystrokes, as well as reading and sending off sensitive information to hackers. This activity can lead to identity theft or stolen money from your bank account. What is more, spyware is capable of taking screenshots, enabling the video camera, and so on.

Don't be surprised if malware does not show any symptoms at all, because that's what happens most of the time. Unlike ransomware viruses, which make sure that victims are aware of what happened to receive ransom payment, deceptive malware often performs malicious tasks silently without revealing itself. This is another good reason to have security software enabled on your PC at all times.

All in all, MSPMSPSV.exe is not an essential Windows file and can be removed. It uses additional RAM space, and its functionality is not that useful for a modern system.

Ways malware is distributed

Users are typically unaware of how viruses inject their machines. Truth to be said, it is relatively simple – hackers use trickery to convince users to download malware themselves. This is because cyber threats cannot simply enter your PC while you are asleep in bed and your PC is switched off – you have to enable the malicious payload to be executed on your system.

One of the most effective malware distribution methods is using malicious spam email attachments or fake hyperlinks. While cybercrooks were pretty bad at creating legitimately looking emails in the past, it is not the case anymore. Every once in awhile, a phishing email that looks extremely genuine might show up in your mailbox, and it might not even be flagged as spam. 

Such emails typically have attachments, and they can be in different file formats, such as .pdf, .doc, .html, etc. Message author usually actively tries to convince the user, that opening the file is necessary. Do not open these attachments, especially if they ask for permission to enable macro function.

Remove MSPMSPSV.exe if it is malware

If the executable file is causing you problems, make sure you immediately perform a full system scan using security software. In case the anti-virus flagged the file as malicious, make sure you remove MSPMSPSV.exe virus from your PC.

However, do not even try to perform manual MSPMSPSV.exe removal, as it will end up in a failure. Malware runs a complicated script that modifies Windows registry and other relevant settings. To revert these changes, professional help is needed, and it is anti-malware software.