/ Windows security alerts

Windows security alerts

On the bottom bar of my screen, I have a red cross, saying “Warning you have security problems.” I have AVG antivirus. How do I get rid of this?

Celeste Stewart Windows Security Alerts

What you are seeing is a “Windows Security Alert” in your system tray area. It looks like a red shield with an “X” in it, correct? If you double-click the shield, the Windows Security Center window will open and you’ll be able to see the security recommendations that Microsoft suggests. Just having one security setting, such as the firewall, turned off will trigger this alert.

For example, many users find User Account Control annoying. User Account Control in Windows Vista is that nagging box that appears every time you want to make a change to your system. While it serves a purpose, it is a bit irritating to have to confirm every little change you make. If you have turned off User Account Control, you will see the red shield and Windows Security Alert warning in the system tray.

Likewise, if your firewall is turned off, you’ll be alerted. Clicking the alert is smart so that you can find out what’s going on with your system and make the necessary corrections.

If all looks good, buy you have User Account Control turned off, the red shield will continue to warn you unless you change the way Windows Security Center alerts you.

Fake Windows Security Alerts

Before I show you how to make the icon go away, I want to mention that fake Windows Security Alerts do exist. These imposters look remarkably like the real thing, only they prompt you to “upgrade” or “install” a particular product. Let’s make sure that you are seeing the real Windows Security Center in action. Does the alert prompt you to upgrade or purchase a specific product (which may sound remarkably similar to well known products)? Or is the advice more general and geared toward your legitimate software or operating system utilities? One way to be sure is to go into the Control Panel and launching the Security Center directly from there.

Changing how Windows Security Center Alerts You

Once you’re sure that you don’t have an imposter and that the settings are just fine, if you want to get rid of the red shield, you can. For example, if you have User Account Control turned off and don’t want to see the warnings, you can change the way Security Center alerts you. Double-click the red shield icon and then choose the link that says, “Change the way Security Center alerts me.” You have three choices: