Riskware (Generic)

Classification

Type :

Riskware

Aliases :

Riskware

Summary

A generic detection has identified a program or file that has code or behavior which, if used in an unauthorized or harmful manner, can introduce security risks to a device or the data stored on it.

Security programs use generic detections that look for broad patterns of code or behavior to identify similar programs or files. If you suspect the file was incorrectly detected, go to: Removal: Suspect a file is incorrectly detected (a False Positive)?.

Removal

Based on the settings of your F-Secure security product, it may allow the file to run, block it from running, move it to the quarantine where it cannot spread or cause harm, or ask you to select an action.

If you are aware of the risks involved in using the file and consent to its use, you may change the settings of your F-Secure security product to allow the file to run. You may also change the settings to exclude it from scanning.

Note: You need administrative rights to change the settings.

A False Positive is when a file is incorrectly detected as harmful, usually because its code or behavior resembles known harmful programs. A False Positive will usually be fixed in a subsequent database update without any action needed on your part. If you wish, you may also:

  • Check for the latest database updates

    First check if your F-Secure security program is using the latest updates, then try scanning the file again.

  • Submit a sample

    After checking, if you still believe the file is incorrectly detected, you can submit a sample of it for re-analysis.

    Note: If the file was moved to quarantine, you need to collect the file from quarantine before you can submit it.

  • Exclude a file from further scanning

    If you are certain that the file is safe and want to continue using it, you can exclude it from further scanning by the F-Secure security product.

    Note: You need administrative rights to change the settings.

Technical Details

Programs may be classed as riskware if they can introduce security risks to the device or to data stored on it. A program that is not harmful but does not provide the functionality claimed may also be classed as riskware.

Programs which can be classed as riskware are those that can give more control or access to a computer or device's operating system or stored data than is usually allowed. This includes programs such as:

  • Operating system rooting tools
  • Data packet sniffing tools
  • Remote administration software
  • Network monitoring software
  • Hack-tools

While such programs may be legitimately used by the computer or device's authorized user or administrator, they are classified by security programs as riskware because in the hands of unauthorized users, they can also be used to cause damage to stored data or the device.

If you are confident that you are aware of the risks involved in using the program and consent to its use, you may choose to keep it installed on your device. You may also choose to exclude it from further scanning.