How to Fix False Virus Alarms for Downloaded Files in Windows 11

 

Step-by-Step Solution for False Virus Alerts

 

1. Open Windows Security Settings
   • Click the Windows Start icon (bottom-left corner).
   • Select Settings (⚙️) from the menu.
   • Go to Privacy & Security > Windows Security > Open Windows Security.
2. Disable Real-Time Protection Temporarily
   • In Windows Security, click Virus & threat protection in the left panel.
   • Under "Virus & threat protection settings," click Manage settings.
   • Toggle off Real-time protection (Note: Only disable this briefly).
3. Add the File to Exclusions
   • In the same menu, click Add or remove exclusions.
   • Select Add an exclusion > File, then browse and select the blocked file.
   • Re-enable Real-time protection afterward.
4. Restore a Wrongly Deleted File
   • If the file was quarantined, go to Protection history in Windows Security.
   • Find the file under "Quarantined threats" and click Restore.

 

By following these steps, you can safely allow legitimate files while maintaining system security.