Winsat.exe...is it ever Malware?

[aleader]

I just had a security warning that Winsat.exe was blocked from accessing memory. I know that it's for benchmarking the PC, but I've never had a warning about it before. I have controlled folder access turned on (always). Can it safely be allowed, or is this malware/virus? I just don't understand why it's giving me this notification out of the blue like this.

 

[VirtualLarry]

I think that there IS malware masquerading as "Winsat.exe", so yes, I would investigate. It does sound suspicious, to me at least.

 

[mindless1]

Submit to virustotal and see what they find

What gave you the security warning? Has that been updated recently?

 

[aleader]

Submit to virustotal and see what they find

What gave you the security warning? Has that been updated recently?

Windows Defender gave me the warning (the notification on the right side). I always have it updated, but I should check. I'm not going to allow it anyways as I don't see any difference without it running.

 

[mindless1]

Agreed, Windows Defender seems like more trouble than it's worth.

 

[aleader]

Agreed, Windows Defender seems like more trouble than it's worth.

Actually from the tests I've seen comparing it to paid software, it does better...and is free. I've never had an issue in 37 years with viruses or malware, so I'm doing something right I did do an update and there was a new virus definition, but I have no idea if it had anything to do with that. I have the Ransomware protection enabled, which is not enabled by default. It may just be a little overkill? I like that it stops things from being written, even if it is a bit of a pain allowing stuff when I install things. I've enabled it on all 3 desktops and both laptops in my house.

 

[mindless1]

Apparently some people didn't get the joke. Note to self, more smileys next time.

 

[aleader]

I guess I don't spend enough time on here to 'get it'.

 

[mindless1]

^ You didn't read carefully enough. It was written "
I'm not going to allow it anyways as I don't see any difference without it running." in reference to winsat, not Defender.