Help - Question re: McAfee Anti-virus (corrupt web advisor?)

[Number9Dream]

This issue involves Windows 10 & McAfee anti-virus V 16.0. I contacted McAfee via online chat because during the last few months, I have been unable to download any photos or software or anything I used to be able to download. Every attempt results in "Failed - virus scan failed". Even trying a 'save image as' of simple photos from long-time friends always results in "virus scan failed'.

The first thing that the chat tech writes is that my McAfee web advisor is corrupted, and I need to uninstall it. I'm rather paranoid about hackers, malware, viruses, etc., so right away I'm suspicious about uninstalling / re-installing software just for web advice. I ended the session.

Have any DUers out there ever heard of corrupted McAfee web advisor software? Should I be suspicious? Is it safe to return to McAfee online and do what I'm instructed?

Thanks - John

[teach1st]

1. I don't use McAffee, but

Web Advisor appears to be troublesome to some users.

If you uninstall, Windows Virus and Threat Protection should automatically kick in until you reinstall. It does a good job. If you're paranoid, keep browsers closed unit you reinstall.

Here is some additional info from McAffee:

https://service.mcafee.com/webcenter/portal/oracle/webcenter/page/scopedMD/s55728c97_466d_4ddb_952d_05484ea932c6/Page29.jspx

[Number9Dream]

2. Thanks for replying - I'll follow your advice and try again

[TwilightZone]

3. I second the suggestion to get rid of McAfee.

Windows 10 has solid anti-virus protection built-in. It should be sufficient for most users, and browsers like Chrome and Edge have some anti-phishing processes built-in.

If you have trouble removing McAfee, there's a tool available that will assist in stubborn cases.

It's available here, under "Method 2" (download and run the MCPR tool):

https://service.mcafee.com/webcenter/portal/oracle/webcenter/page/scopedMD/s55728c97_466d_4ddb_952d_05484ea932c6/Page29.jspx?showFooter=false&articleId=TS101331

[TheRealNorth]

4. I dislike McAfee as well

I have been using Webroot internet security and have had far less problems then what I had with McAfee.

[Number9Dream]

6. Thanks for taking time to reply

[Earth-shine]

5. I will "third" the suggestion to get rid of McAfee.

For 99% of users, the built-in protections of Windows are more than adequate.

The last time I did an uninstall of McAfee, it damaged some Windows files.

You may wish to do a clean install of Windows.

"Gotta nuke it from space, just to be sure." -- Aliens