What it really mean when AV rename a file?

Discussion in 'other anti-virus software' started by sweater, Dec 25, 2005.

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  1. sweater

    sweater Registered Member

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    After scans the Dr. Web(free) Anti-virus, suggested to renamed my SnoopFree Privacy Shield file. What it really meant by this? o_O That instead of disinfecting or deleting the file it rename it? :eek:
     
  2. stefan_c38

    stefan_c38 Registered Member

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    File.exe->File.vexe
     
  3. shorty1

    shorty1 Registered Member

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    Rename means to rename the file extension which renders the file unusable thus disabling the file and if it's really a nasty that is a good. On the other hand, if it was a false positive you can simply change the extension back to its original form and the file is again usable. It also allows you to submit a file for analysis by malware vendors.
    Since you mention Dr Web, by default it renames files by inserting a # sign in the extension. Example would be: abcd.exe would become abcd.#xe
     
    Last edited: Dec 25, 2005
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