How to fix Chrome 'Failed - Virus Detected' error on Windows

Therefore, it will pause the download and display this error message to prevent your computer from getting a virus.

Sometimes, Chrome falsely flags even if you're downloading a safe file from a reputable source. So what can you do in this situation? What is the best way to verify that the file is safe? If it's safe, how do you ignore this error message? All answers will be in the following article!.

Before start…

Before implementing fixes, make sure Chrome is up to date. In some cases, outdated Chrome can cause unforeseen problems, such as pausing downloads for no apparent reason. Therefore, it is imperative to update Chrome to rule out this possibility.

Also, try closing the browser and restarting it to see if that resolves the issue. You should also clear your Chrome cache and cookies to make sure they don't interfere with the download.

1. Make sure the file you are downloading is safe

Even when downloading files from a legitimate source, it is imperative to ensure a safe download. Follow the steps below to make sure the file is virus-free:

1. Visit VirusTotal official website.

2. Copy the download link of the file you are having trouble downloading.

3. Paste the downloaded link in the URL search bar

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4. Press Enter to continue.

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In addition, you can refer to: How to scan downloaded files for viruses on Chrome. After the scan is done, see if it returns clear results. If the tool detects some viruses, you'd better not download the file. If the scan shows no viruses but you still get the error, it's time to try something else

2. Is the problem related to a specific file?

Check if the error only occurs when downloading a specific file. If so, you probably need to download it from another source.

Try downloading the same file from another website, preferably an official one, and see if that works. If the download fails or you continue to get errors when downloading multiple files, the problem seems to be more serious.

Only apply the remaining fixes if you are absolutely sure that the file you are downloading is safe.

3. Disable any security extensions

Any security extension you're using, especially a virus scanner, can interfere with the download and force Chrome to stop midway. Therefore, you should disable all security extensions in your browser that may interfere with the download process. If you don't know how, see how to disable or remove browser extensions in all browsers.

4. Exclude Downloads folder from Windows Defender

By default, Microsoft Defender scans every folder on your computer. Therefore, it will prevent your download from completing if a virus is detected. By excluding the destination folder where your files are being downloaded, you can get rid of the error. Follow the instructions: How to add exceptions in Windows Defender on Windows 10.

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By adding an exception, you will prevent Windows Defender from scanning files in the Downloads folder, so if Windows Defender throws an error even though the file you are downloading is safe, you won't get that error again.

5. Add files to the Windows Defender whitelist

Microsoft's Windows Defender Firewall is "famous" for blocking completely safe files and processes from downloading or running. Therefore, you need to allow it separately in Windows Defender to be able to download files. Here's how you can do it:

1. In Windows Search ( Win + S ), search for "Windows Security" and open it.

2. In the left sidebar, click Virus & threat protection .

3. In the right pane, click Protection history .

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4. Locate and expand the blocked application or file.

5. Expand the Actions drop-down menu and click Allow .

This time, you will not encounter any errors when downloading the file. If the problem persists, edit Chrome's privacy settings.

6. Temporarily Disable Microsoft Defender Firewall

Excluding the Downloads folder and adding the file to Microsoft Defender's whitelist will prevent Windows' built-in security scanner from scanning this file and allowing the file to download successfully. However, if you are still facing the same error, the article recommends that you temporarily disable Microsoft Defender Firewall.

Note : Don't forget to enable Microsoft Defender after downloading the file as it is the first line of defense against malware and threats your computer faces.

7. Tweak Chrome's Privacy Settings

If Chrome still considers your file a threat, then you should disable Safe Browsing in its settings. Here are the steps you need to take:

1. Click the three vertical dots in the top right corner and go to Settings .

2. In the left sidebar, click Privacy and security .

3. In the right pane, click Security .

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4. Check the No Protection (not recommended) box .

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Note : You can download files successfully by turning off Safe Browsing, but when you disable it, Chrome's built-in security won't protect you from malware and malicious downloads. again. Therefore, after downloading the files, be sure to re-enable Safe Browsing.

8. Tweaking Windows Registry Editor

If Windows Defender still blocks completely safe file downloads, tweak Registry Editor to force the antivirus to stop scanning downloaded attachments. You can do that by following the steps below:

1. In Windows Search, type "Registry Editor" and open the program.

2. Copy and paste the following path:

HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionPolicies

3. Right-click the Policies key , select New > Key and name it Attachments .

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4. Right-click Attachments and navigate to New > DWORD (32-bit) Value .

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5. Rename the newly created String Value to ScanWithAntiVirus.

6. Double-click ScanWIthAntiVirus and enter "1" in Value data .

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7. Click OK.

Since editing Registry Editor can be complicated and harmful, you should have an expert perform the fix if you don't know how to edit Registry Editor manually.

9. Run a malware scan

If you're still having the problem discussed after applying the fixes listed above, you should make sure your device isn't infected with a virus that's causing it to behave abnormally. Malware hiding inside your device can prevent Chrome from downloading files. So you should make sure that is not the cause in this case.

Run a malware scan to rule out this possibility. While you can use any third-party antivirus software to scan your device for threats, the article recommends running Microsoft Defender's offline scan to remove it completely. whole virus.

Jessica Tanner

Update 03 May 2023