Is Windows Security Center real or rogue?
A reader writes:
What kind of warnings from Windows Security Center are real, and what should I do about them?
Windows Security Center is a feature that was introduced in Windows XP Service Pack 2 and was also included in Windows Vista. (Action Center replaced Windows Security Center in Windows 7.)
Security Center checks the security status on your computer, including:
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Firewall settings
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Windows automatic updating
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Antivirus software settings
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Internet security settings
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User Account Control settings
If Security Center detects a security problem, it displays a notification and puts a Security Center icon in the notification area. Click the notification or double-click the Security Center icon 
to open Security Center and get information about how to fix the problem.
Is Windows Security Center a virus?
In the years since Security Center was introduced, cybercriminals have created several different kinds of malware that look like Security Center or have the same name. If you have this malware on your computer, it might lure you into a fraudulent transaction, steal your personal information, or slow down your computer. This kind of malware is called “rogue security software.” Learn how to spot and avoid these fake virus alerts.
How do I know if the warnings are real?
- If you think a warning looks suspicious, the first thing you can do is run antivirus software on your computer, which might let you know if you have a virus. Learn more about antivirus software for your operating system.
- To check your knowledge of real security warnings and fake security warnings, and to learn how to help protect your computer and personal information, take our quiz.
