What is system32.exe? Should I remove it?

System32.exe – a legitimate Windows process which has been actively misused by the developers of Trojan horse

System32.exe is a legitimate executable file from Windows OS. However, it is not an essential Windows component and has rather been linked with the C:\Windows\System32 folder than with Photo editor or Twain apps. Unfortunately, if you found this file running in your Task Manager, there is a high chance that it is malicious. System32.exe can be related to the MARI Virus Trojan, numerous worms and other cyber threats. In this case, the file can have more than one location. Make sure you scan the system thoroughly to make sure that there is no malware hiding on it and also get rid of the fraudulent file if it is reported to be such.

In most of the cases, the System32.exe executable is related to the Trojan horse.^[1] Once inside the system, such threats pose a serious harm to the computer system by performing their dubious actions. You can notice a trojan infection on your computer after noticing an increase in your CPU usage and visible slowdowns in your computer work.

However, the worst part is that such viruses allow cybercriminals to access the victim's computer remotely. System32.exe virus can give permission to open various files, run different processes, install and uninstall certain types of software, etc. Nevertheless, crooks who use this executable to access the computer system can easily steal personal information that is located on the infected machine. Data theft can lead to numerous issues as such information can be misused very easily to steal the money or comit other crimes.

We suggest performing the System32.exe removal as soon as you are reported by your anti-virus program that it is a malicious file. Even though such executable file can be found as harmless, the bigger chances that it is a malicious component of the Trojan horse or a computer worm.^[2]

To remove System32.exe virus, use only reputable antivirus as terminating this file won't help you take care of related viruses properly. Note that manual elimination is not a good possibility when dealing with trojans and similar threats that typically spread around together with dubious components. Moreover, consider installing FortectIntego which will allow you to detect all damaged objects.

Spam messages might include harmful executables

Mostly, malicious content such as trojan-related executables is spread via spam messages^[3]. The hazardous file comes attached to the questionable letter. Users often get tricked by its innocent looking and open the clipped attachment. However, this leads to the secret installation of malware. Be aware of dubious email messages, eliminate all that you receive in your spam box. Note that some might fall in the inbox, delete all letters that you were not expecting to receive.

According to tech experts^[4], sometimes, malware-related executables can be spread via a malicious website. Some third party-promoted pages might include potentially dangerous content in certain links. Be careful while browsing the Internet, do not click on every link you see. For automatical protection, cybersecurity experts advise installing a reliable anti-malware tool which will protect the computer daily.

Get rid of System32.exe virus

Once you spot this executable on your computer, run a full system scan with your anti-virus to check its trustworthiness. If it reports about malware found, remove System32.exe virus together with remaining components. Let your anti-virus software do this job for you to prevent system damage. You can use FortectIntego, SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner, or Malwarebytes to complete this process.

Do NOT mix this executable with C:\Windows\System32 folder which is NOT malicious! Its removal can cause numerous problems related to your computer and its proper functionality. However, if you ever spot the high CPU usage or similar signs showing that your PC is infected, performing a full system scan on your computer.

Note that proceeding with the System32.exe removal manually is not recommended as this file can hide numerous harmful components in the computer system. Moreover, anti-malware tools can complete the process faster and more effectively.