All modern Windows PCs come with Microsoft Defender built in. For the unaware, this tool is Windows’ native antivirus. Over time, it has matured into a reliable security tool capable of blocking a ...

Toggle the Real-time protection switch off. You may receive a User Account Control (UAC) prompt asking if you want to allow the change to occur. Select Yes. When you're ready to turn system protection ...

Q: Are Windows Defender warnings that pop up with a phone number legit? A: Microsoft’s built-in security tool has improved over the years, and it still blocks plenty of everyday threats. But the ...

Update, March 31, 2025: This story, originally published March 29, has been updated with an explanation of LOLBINS as well as further technical information regarding the Windows Defender Application ...