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Scrape Timestamp (UTC): 2023-10-03 10:10:49.460
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Microsoft Defender no longer flags Tor Browser as malware. Recent versions of the TorBrowser, specifically because of the updated tor.exe file it contained, were being incorrectly flagged as potential threats by Windows Defender. Users were alerted to a possible trojan, causing a bit of a stir in the community, but this was a case of false positives. TorBrowser has an update on this matter. After contacting Microsoft about the issue, TorBrowser received a definitive response. Microsoft stated, "We've reviewed the submitted files and have determined that they do not fit our definitions of malware or unwanted applications. As such, we've removed the detection." For users who still see this false positive, Microsoft provided a clear set of instructions to update and clear any previous flags: For those who prefer manual updates, Microsoft has made the latest definitions available here. Similar warnings were also spotted in Virus Total, which relies on third-party security vendors to scan uploaded files. Some users noted that a preliminary VirusTotal.com check might have prevented this oversight, expressing dismay that such a standard safety measure was apparently overlooked. A frustrated user remarked, "It's concerning that a release made it to the public without a prior VirusTotal.com check. For an entire weekend, users were left grappling with doubts. Henceforth, every release should be paired with a VirusTotal review. This way, anyone downloading the software can personally ensure no virus detection flags it—at least not at the launch." Responding to the criticisms, a representative from Tor highlighted some notable points. Presently, Tor doesn't have a standing procedure for uploading files to VirusTotal before release. Microsoft Defender is no longer flagging Tor Browser As of the latest signature database (version 1.397.1910.0), Windows Defender no longer flags tor.exe as a trojan. If you found your Tor Browser non-functional recently, here's what you can do: And as a safety reminder, it is recommended to verify the signature before installation.
Daily Brief Summary
Recent versions of the Tor Browser were wrongly flagged as potential security threats by Microsoft Defender due to the updated tor.exe file it contained.
The alert caused uncertainty within the user community as they were notified about a possible trojan, a situation that turned out to be a case of false positives.
After Tor reported the issue to Microsoft, it received a response saying, "We've reviewed the submitted files and have determined that they do not fit our definitions of malware or unwanted applications. As such, we've removed the detection."
Microsoft provided instructions for users who still saw the false positives to update and clear any previous flags.
Some users voiced criticism over the lack of a prior check with VirusTotal.com, which uses third-party security vendors to scan uploaded files.
A Tor representative noted that the firm does not have a standing procedure for uploading files to VirusTotal before release.
As a security measure, users are advised to verify the signature before installing Tor Browser.