Microsoft Acknowledges False "Virus Protection Off" Alerts in Windows
Microsoft has acknowledged an issue where Microsoft Defender Antivirus may incorrectly report that "virus protection is off" on various Windows 10 and Windows 11 versions. The false alerts affect multiple client and server operating system versions.
Microsoft has confirmed an issue causing Microsoft Defender Antivirus to display false alerts stating that "virus protection is off" on certain Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems. The problem emerged after a recent update to the Defender Antivirus software.
The bug impacts a significant number of Windows versions. Specifically, eight client versions are affected, including Windows 11 versions 26H1, 25H2, 24H2, and 23H2, as well as Windows 10 versions 22H2, 21H2, and specific LTSC editions. Additionally, six server versions, such as Windows Server 2025, 2022, 2019, 2016, 2012 R2, and 2012, are also experiencing the false notifications.
Users may encounter these misleading warnings upon system startup or intermittently during use. The alerts can persist or reappear even if system notification settings have been disabled, potentially causing confusion and concern about the actual security status of their devices.
Microsoft stated that it is actively working on a fix and will provide further details in upcoming Microsoft Defender Antivirus updates. No temporary workaround or specific timeline for the patch release has been announced yet.