Secoh-qad.exe is a component linked with KMSPico, a tool for illegal Windows and Microsoft Office activation. When deployed alongside active anti-virus software, this tool triggers security alerts, identifying the executable file as a potential threat. However, this name may be used by other malware, leave alone the fact that the “activators” often bring malware. Since the situation is fishy from either side, I strongly recommend using anti-malware software to check the system.
Secoh-qad.exe Overview
The Secoh-qad.exe is a file belonging to KMSPico, a program used to activate Windows or Microsoft Office products without a valid license key. Many security experts classify KMSPico as a potentially unwanted program (PUP) or a crack tool. This is due to the various risks it can pose to your system and privacy.
Secoh-qad.exe process in the Task Manager
Secoh-qad.exe is usually found in the C:\Windows folder and has a size of 4,096 to 4,608 bytes, depending on your Windows version. It may also use the secoh-qad.dll file, which can be found in the same folder. The file runs in the background and communicates with a remote server to check for updates or send information about your system. It’s crucial to understand that it is not a genuine Windows executable file
| Name | Secoh-qad.exe |
| Threat Type | Trojan, Password-stealing virus, Banking malware, Spyware |
| Damage | Stolen banking information, passwords, identity theft, victim’s computer added to a botnet. |
Spreading Methods
The Secoh-qad.exe Trojan may appear due to numerous reasons, but all of them stem from shady activity. As I said above, it mainly comes from KMSPico or Windows OS setups already activated with KMSPico. The software “cracking” (activation) tools aren’t the sole means of malware proliferation. Cybercriminals employ various tactics, including trojans, spam campaigns, fake software update tools, and dubious software download sources or tools. Trojans, for instance, initiate chain infections upon installation, spreading additional malicious software. Spam campaigns serve to distribute viruses via email attachments, enticing recipients to open files that, upon execution, download and install malware. These attachments may comprise JavaScript files, MS Office or PDF documents, executables (.exe), or archive files like ZIP or RAR.
Fake software update tools deceive users into installing malicious programs, including Secoh-qad.exe, instead of legitimate updates or fixes, sometimes exploiting vulnerabilities in outdated software. Additionally, malware spreads through untrustworthy software download sources such as peer-to-peer networks (eMule, torrent clients), unofficial websites, freeware or free file hosting pages, etc., where cybercriminals disguise malicious executables as legitimate files. Cybercriminals may exploit these software sources to deceive users and make them install Secoh-qad.exe by themselves, instead of the intended software or files.
How To Remove Malware?
I insist on avoiding manual malware removal due to the malware’s tendency to create backups. It makes tracking and eliminating all the malware components difficult even for a tech-savvy user. The most reliable approach is to utilize anti-malware software.
GridinSoft Anti-Malware is a highly recommended option known for its efficiency, speed, and lightweight design, making it proficient in neutralizing threats like Rage. You can explore its capabilities through a 6-day free trial. For detailed instructions on removing Rage effectively, please refer to the comprehensive guide below.
Remove secoh-qad.exe with Gridinsoft Anti-Malware
We have also been using this software on our systems ever since, and it has always been successful in detecting viruses. It has blocked the most common Trojans as shown from our tests with the software, and we assure you that it can remove secoh-qad.exe as well as other malware hiding on your computer.
To use Gridinsoft for remove malicious threats, follow the steps below:
1. Begin by downloading Gridinsoft Anti-Malware, accessible via the blue button below or directly from the official website gridinsoft.com.
2.Once the Gridinsoft setup file (setup-gridinsoft-fix.exe) is downloaded, execute it by clicking on the file. Follow the installation setup wizard's instructions diligently.
3. Access the "Scan Tab" on the application's start screen and launch a comprehensive "Full Scan" to examine your entire computer. This inclusive scan encompasses the memory, startup items, the registry, services, drivers, and all files, ensuring that it detects malware hidden in all possible locations.
Be patient, as the scan duration depends on the number of files and your computer's hardware capabilities. Use this time to relax or attend to other tasks.
4. Upon completion, Anti-Malware will present a detailed report containing all the detected malicious items and threats on your PC.
5. Select all the identified items from the report and confidently click the "Clean Now" button. This action will safely remove the malicious files from your computer, transferring them to the secure quarantine zone of the anti-malware program to prevent any further harmful actions.
6. If prompted, restart your computer to finalize the full system scan procedure. This step is crucial to ensure thorough removal of any remaining threats. After the restart, Gridinsoft Anti-Malware will open and display a message confirming the completion of the scan.
Remember Gridinsoft offers a 6-day free trial. This means you can take advantage of the trial period at no cost to experience the full benefits of the software and prevent any future malware infections on your system. Embrace this opportunity to fortify your computer's security without any financial commitment.
Leave a Comment