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  • Verified · Aug 2016

How to remove “Windows Activation Error Code: 0x44578” virus

A step-by-step removal guide for affected devices. Follow the verified procedure below — most readers complete it in under 10 minutes.

Lucia Danes · Virus researcher

Things to keep in mind about the Windows Activation Error Code: 0x44578:

Windows Activation Error Code: 0x44578 virus is a lock screen infection which belongs to the category of tech-support scams. These viruses have been growing more popular over the last couple of months and the reports about new versions continue to flow in. This tech support scam virus is a combination of ransomware and adware, so this is probably one of the worst infections to be dealing with. Though it does not encrypt the content on the infected computer with some complex algorithms, it does block the access to your data by displaying a lock screen whenever you boot your computer. This screen displays a message claiming that the computer is locked, and you need to submit a password to proceed to your desktop:

Windows Activation Error Code: 0x44578
Your product key should be on the box that the Windows DVD came in or in an email that shows you bought Windows. The product key looks similar to this:
Product Key: XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX
Activate this edition of Windows

Whatever you try entering in the provided Product Key line won’t activate your Windows, because it is not expired in the first place. This message is only a trick the hackers use to make you call the indicated number and purchase the non-existing Windows activation key or fake tech-support service. The scammers are often very informed in human psychology so be careful not to get talked into purchasing the fake products. Though the lock screen may make it seem impossible, you can, however, remove Windows Activation Error Code: 0x44578 and reset your computer to boot properly again. The lock screen removal instructions are presented below, and the rest can be achieved by scanning your system with a reliable anti-malware tool, like FortectIntego.

An illustration of the Windows Activation Error Code: 0x44578 virus

Though you still will be able to access the basic functions like signing out, changing your password, locking or shutting down your PC, the rest of the computer will remain inaccessible. To regain the access, you will have to purchase the activation key from the scammers for around $100 USD. This is one of the main principles ransomware viruses operate on; that is why Windows Activation Error Code: 0x44578 scam is also attributable to this category of viruses as well. Moreover, this shady business hides ever more. Once the scammers put you on the line, they will try to extort as much profit as possible. Do not grant remote access to your computer if you are asked to. In case you already agreed upon it, make sure you terminate this connection immediately and inspect your computer with an antivirus scanner.

How can this virus lock my computer?

Windows Activation Error Code: 0x44578 will probably infect your computer without much trouble because it is not a complex virus. Its creators simply need to attach it to some popular applications and the users will download it on their computers themselves. Of course, none of us would do that consciously which means that the malware installation has to remain stealthy. Luckily for the malware developers, regular computer users rarely focus on the software installation, so the potentially unwanted programs can be easily added and spread via software bundles. The users’ tendency to ignore “Advanced” or “Custom” installation settings is the key to such stealthy installation success. If more users chose these modes over the “Quick” or “Recommended” ones, there would be significantly fewer cases of malware infections. If you want to keep Windows Activation Error Code: 0x44578 virus away from your computer always check the software package components and cancel the installation of the ones you find questionable.

How do you fix your computer and remove Windows Activation Error Code: 0x44578 notifications?

The elimination of tech-support scam viruses is difficult and can be aggravated by various aspects. The virus uses lock screen to prevent you from accessing your desktop and even if you manage to bypass this obstacle, you may encounter some trouble locating the virus files scattered all over your PC. The Windows Activation Error Code: 0x44578 removal will be more effective if you combine manual and automatic methods together. First, lift the screen lock using the guidelines provided below and then scan your system with automatic virus detection utility. Update your antivirus scanner before the scan to achieve the best result.

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