{
  "family": "protector",
  "sample_count": 1,
  "category": "ransomware",
  "description": "<h3>Executive Summary</h3>\nProtector (often seen as \"Windows Protector,\" \"System Protector,\" or \"Antivirus Protector\") is a classification for Rogue Security Software, specifically operating as \"Scareware.\" It masquerades as a legitimate, Microsoft-affiliated system optimization or antivirus utility. Its true objective is to perform fake system scans, generate alarming false-positive error reports, and use psychological manipulation to trick the user into purchasing a \"premium license\" to fix non-existent problems.\n\n<h3>Infection Vector and Technical Capabilities</h3>\nProtector relies heavily on malvertising and deceptive software bundling. Users frequently encounter it via highly aggressive pop-up ads on dubious websites (e.g., \"Your PC is infected with 5 viruses! Click here to clean.\"). It is also commonly installed silently alongside other freeware downloaded from third-party aggregators.\n\nOnce installed, the software employs highly aggressive and deceptive tactics:\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Deceptive Scanning and Scareware Tactics:</strong> The application launches automatically on boot and performs a rapid, fake \"scan\" of the system. It invariably reports that the registry is corrupt, the hard drive is failing, or severe malware is present, creating a false sense of urgency.</li>\n<li><strong>System Hostage (Locking):</strong> Aggressive variants of Protector may employ locking tactics. They may disable the Task Manager, block access to legitimate antivirus software, or constantly overlay the screen with warnings, effectively holding the system hostage until the user pays the ransom (buys the \"license\").</li>\n<li><strong>Browser Hijacking:</strong> It frequently installs accompanying browser extensions or modifies system DNS settings to inject advertisements and redirect search queries to affiliate-monetized search engines.</li>\n</ul>\n\n<h3>Threat Assessment</h3>\nWhile technically not destructive malware like a file-encrypting ransomware, Protector poses a severe threat to user productivity and financial security (extortion). The aggressive persistence mechanisms cause significant IT helpdesk overhead, and the constant alarming pop-ups create severe disruption.\n\n<h3>Incident Response and Remediation</h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Safe Mode Execution:</strong> Due to the aggressive screen-locking and self-defense mechanisms, it is almost always necessary to boot the infected machine into Windows \"Safe Mode with Networking\" to prevent the scareware from launching before attempting removal.</li>\n<li><strong>Targeted Anti-Malware Scan:</strong> Utilize a reputable enterprise anti-malware solution (specifically tuned for Rogue Software and Scareware removal) to scan for and remove the deeply embedded registry keys and scheduled tasks.</li>\n<li><strong>Financial Dispute:</strong> If the user was tricked into purchasing the fake software, advise them to immediately contact their credit card company to dispute the fraudulent charge.</li>\n</ul>",
  "cta": "Published by the SystemHelpdesk team.",
  "aliases": [
    "Rogue.Protector",
    "Scareware.Protector",
    "Win32/FakeAV.Protector"
  ],
  "enrichment_level": "insufficient_information",
  "faq": [],
  "faq_count": 0,
  "mitre_attack": [
    "T1491",
    "T1562.001",
    "T1112"
  ],
  "cisa_advisory": null,
  "last_updated": "2026-07-02T06:52:06Z",
  "type": "Rogue Security Software / Scareware",
  "target_industries": [
    "Global / Opportunistic"
  ],
  "motivation": "Opportunistic",
  "threat_actors": [
    "Unknown / Cybercriminal"
  ],
  "target_geographies": [
    "Global"
  ]
}