System Scan Information - False Positive

What is a False Positive?

False Positives (aka False Alarms), in the context of system scanning, are occurrences where a scan detects a potential threat or problem, but is actually detecting something completely harmless.

As an example. a scan may detect a certain type of malware, but the malware has disguised itself as a legitimate product.  On the other side however, the product may be quite legitimate and harmless. 

Use your best judgement.  There really is no easy answer as each case is generally different.

The most important thing to considered is the source.  Did the item being identified come from a trusted source?  However even in this instance, malware can overwrite files from a trusted source on your PC.

The product used to perform the scan from which the false positive was reported, may provide more information on the item.  Use this information to help decide what your course of action should be.

Some products also provide further help through forums, support and sample submissions.