Executive Summary

Malwarebytes Labs uncovered counterfeit Microsoft-branded security scanners that fabricate threats, instruct users to uninstall legitimate antivirus software, and then redirect them to a refund scam. The deceptive tools mislead victims into believing their systems are compromised, prompting them to remove their real protection and fall prey to fraudulent offers.

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Intelligence Metadata - Source Publisher: Malwarebytes Labs - Published Date: 2026-08-24T14:50:23+00:00 - Category: malware

Original Description: We found fake Microsoft-branded scanners that invent security problems, tell victims to uninstall AV, and then steer them into a refund scam.

"I have always thought the actions of men the best interpreters of their thoughts."

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