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Virus scans in safe mode ?

Discussion in 'Security and Privacy' started by Budo, 2011/06/04.

  1. 2011/06/04
    Budo

    Budo Inactive Thread Starter

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    Is there a recommended way to run virus and spyware etc scans with the computer in normal mode or safe mode ?.
    Budo
     
    Budo,
    #1
  2. 2011/06/04
    MitchellCooley Lifetime Subscription

    MitchellCooley Inactive

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    I think safe mode scans are reserved for situations where you're having difficulties running them in normal mode; or desktop/internet difficulties caused by suspected malware.

    On the other hand it really won't hurt anything to run scans in safe mode once in a while. I would not use 'safe mode with networking" unless absolutly necessary or instructed by a malware analyst. Update all virus software before running in safe mode.

    Mitch
     

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  4. 2011/06/04
    broni

    broni Moderator Malware Analyst

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    In general, no.
    Sometimes, with some heavy infections, scanning in normal mode is not possible. In that case, initial scans can be done in safe mode.
    Also, there are some tools, like Superantispyware, which are designed to be run in Safe Mode.
    So, under normal circumstances, no.
     
  5. 2011/06/04
    Budo

    Budo Inactive Thread Starter

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    Good info Broni and Mitch. Had always wondered.
    Seems as though safe mode will complete scans in less time. Also I have done scans with Malwarebytes in normal mode and have it hang up part way through then did scan in safe mode and it completed fine. Only occasionally though.
    Budo
     
    Budo,
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  6. 2011/06/04
    broni

    broni Moderator Malware Analyst

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    That's because less stuff is running, but on the other hand some malicious items can be missed, if they activate in normal mode only.
     

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