How to remove SAntivirus

SAntivirus is a doubtful anti-virus program that may display exaggerated scan results to make users purchase its license

SAntivirus, also known as Segurazo, is a security tool developed by a global I.T security company. The antivirus suite offers its customers full virus protection, potential threat quarantine, privacy protection, performance improvements, real-time protection, and more. Although that sounds appealing, experts do not recommend relying on this tool. Based on the reports of users^[1] and the infosec community, SAntivirus is being distributed alongside freeware and that's the first sign that the application is not trustworthy. 

This misleading third-party antivirus tool has a poor reputation due to deceptive scan results. According to the reports, it pushes its license key by displaying exaggerated scan results. Moreover, users reported many problems with SAntivirus removal,^[2] as it would modify the local group policy settings (by using SeLoadDriverPrivilege command)^[3] to escalate privileges and then establish persistence. 

Upon installation, the SAntivirus scanner is displayed regularly. As a consequence, the system may run slower than before due to high CPU consumption. In some cases, the scan may trigger BSODs or errors that lead to system restart. Due to such performance, people risk losing some work. 

At a glance, some users may think that SAntivirus is a decent anti-virus software that can also optimize their PC, as it uses a neat design with and UI, which is easy to navigate. It claims to include the following features:

• Real-time protection feature(ransomware, web, email);
• Malware removal;
• Privacy scanner;
• Performance booster;
• Online Safety feature.

However, under its design and well-presented features, SAntivirus hides traits that are more common to malware rather than to programs that protect against it.

First of all, most of the users who are dealing with SAntivirus never installed it intentionally (even though it can be downloaded on its official website), as it is spread with the help of various unfair techniques, including software bundles, fake update prompts and deceptive ads.

Once installed on the system, SAntivirus instantaneously performs a full system scan. While it is a common procedure for all anti-malware tools, what is not common is the results that it brings. Because the app shows exaggerated scan results (for example, it may mark Google-related cookies as a medium severity threat, which is absolutely not correct), users may think that their computers are in a much worse state than they actually are.

In case users press the “Remove all issues” button, they will be directed to a payment page, asking them to purchase a full version of the SAntivirus app. We highly advise you not to pay for this useless software, as you will simply waste your money – considering its deceptive marketing techniques and misleading scan results, it can hardly be trusted as a security tool for your computer.

Instead, you should rely on applications that are reliable and do not mislead users on every step. If you need a system optimization tool that could also fix various Windows issues, we suggest FortectIntego. Additionally, you should also not forget about your computer's defenses – employ anti-malware like SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes to remove SAntivirus and protect your computer from other threats in the future.

Many ask is SAntivirus a virus

Online forums, such as Reddit are filled with questions if the Segurazo SAntivirus is a virus itself. The answer to this question is straightforward – this anti-virus tool is not a virus. It fits the category of security tools, though its performance is questionable. 

According to cybersecurity experts, it's better to avoid tools that are distributed by bundling. The deceptive distribution strategy indicates the fact that the tool is not reputable and may have hidden intentions. Like in this case, the so-called SAntivirus malware seeks to make people purchase its license key using shady methods, such as:

• The tool is distributed via free apps, such as Audacity;
• There's no direct SAntivirus uninstaller. Typically, the SegurazoUninstaller.exe file is hidden in atypical location to avoid detection;
• Running the uninstaller does not ensure the elimination of this PUP;
• The AV scanner is launched randomly causing the high CPU usage and sometimes causing BSODs;
• The scan results may contain names of non-existent viruses, spyware, and other cyber threats;
• Upon the end of the free trial, SAntivirus starts causing redirects to the official payment website.

Thus, if you haven't installed this application yet, we recommend staying away from it and rely on the reputable anti-virus programs like SpyHunterCombo Cleaner, MalwarebytesMalwarebytes, and others. If, however, you are currently facing difficulties with Segurazo SAntivirus removal, try to restart your machine into Safe Mode as explained below and run a scan to get rid of this PUP. 

PUPs like rogue antivirus tools are often delivered by freeware

Potentially unwanted programs are called so for a reason, although they are generally “unwanted” by users. If the application is classified as a PUP, you should better stay away from it, as it uses multiple deceptive techniques in order to reach its goal – monetization. And, while earning money for the provided product is reasonable, giving false advertisements and lying about its functionality is not – users simply feel tricked and betrayed, although they usually cannot bring their money back anymore, as they willingly paid for the app.

Therefore, it is best to stay away from PUPs in the first place, as they might not only make you pay for useless services, but also compromise your online security by changing web browser settings and leading to suspicious websites, or tracking your online activities in the background.

To ensure that you stay away from potentially unwanted and malicious apps, follow these simple tips provided by security experts:^[4]

• If possible, always choose official sources for your downloads;
• Avoid torrent, warez, and other high-risk sites;
• Before installing an app, check out user reviews or blog posts online;
• During the installation process, ensure that essential documents are provided – Terms of Service and Privacy Policy;
• Always opt for Advanced/Custom settings instead of Recommended/Quick ones if prompted;
• Watch for out misleading button placements, deceptive offers, pre-ticked boxes, fine print text, and other tricks that freeware authors employ in order to deceive people and make them install malware.

Uninstall SAntivirus with the help of these instructions

Many users said that SAntivirus removal was very difficult – they said they tried deleting the files manually within the Program Files folder but the access was denied. Nevertheless, you may try to eliminate the PUP by using manual termination steps as per the instructions below.

As we mentioned above, SAntivirus virus engages in various system modifications, such as Windows registry change, alternation of local group policy, and performs changes other critical Windows settings. As a result, you might not be able to remove SAntivirus manually, and you will need some help from automatic removal software.

For that, you should download and install anti-malware that recognizes the PUP. Unlike when trying to get rid of the threat yourself, security software can detect all the malicious files within the system and remove the privileges Segurazo established for itself during the installation process.