Many users rely on Malwarebytes to keep their devices safe from malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats. However, sometimes scans fail or produce errors, leaving users frustrated. Understanding the common causes of Malwarebytes scan errors and learning how to fix them can ensure your device stays fully protected.
Common Malwarebytes Scan Errors
Here are some typical scan errors users encounter:
- Scan Not Starting – The scan button doesn’t respond or the scan stops immediately.
- Scan Fails or Crashes – Malwarebytes crashes mid-scan or displays an error code.
- Scan Quarantines Legitimate Files – The program mistakenly flags safe files as threats.
- Scan Freezes or Hangs – Malwarebytes gets stuck at a certain percentage during scanning.
- Update Required Error – The scan cannot proceed because the program or virus definitions are outdated.
Why Malwarebytes Scan Errors Occur
Scan errors can happen for several reasons:
- Outdated Malwarebytes software or virus definitions
- Conflicts with other antivirus programs or security software
- Corrupted installation files
- Insufficient system resources (low RAM or CPU usage)
- Permission issues on Windows or macOS
How to Fix Malwarebytes Scan Errors
Follow these step-by-step solutions to fix most scan-related problems:
1. Update Malwarebytes and Virus Definitions
Outdated software often causes scan errors. To update:
- Open Malwarebytes.
- Go to Settings → About → Check for Updates.
- Update both the program and virus definitions.
- Restart Malwarebytes and run the scan again.
2. Restart Your Computer
Sometimes, a simple restart resolves temporary system conflicts that prevent Malwarebytes from scanning correctly. Save your work, restart your device, and try running the scan again.
3. Disable Conflicting Programs
Other antivirus or security programs can interfere with Malwarebytes scans. Temporarily disable them and then:
- Run Malwarebytes scan
- Ensure only Malwarebytes is actively scanning to avoid conflicts
Remember to re-enable your other security programs after the scan.
4. Run Malwarebytes as Administrator
Permission issues can prevent scans from completing. To run Malwarebytes as admin:
- Right-click the Malwarebytes icon.
- Select Run as Administrator.
- Try running the scan again.
5. Perform a Clean Install
If Malwarebytes keeps failing to scan, your installation may be corrupted. Perform a clean reinstall:
- Uninstall Malwarebytes from your system.
- Download the latest version
- Install and restart your computer.
- Run a scan.
6. Check System Resources
Scan errors can occur if your computer is low on RAM or CPU. Close unnecessary programs before scanning to free up resources. For older computers, try running Quick Scan instead of Full Scan to reduce system load.
7. Review Quarantined Files
If Malwarebytes is incorrectly quarantining safe files:
- Open Malwarebytes → Quarantine
- Review the quarantined items carefully
- Restore files only if you are certain they are safe
8. Contact Malwarebytes Support
If none of the above solutions work, contact Malwarebytes support:
- Submit a ticket with details of the scan error and any error codes
- Include screenshots and system specifications for faster troubleshooting
Tips to Prevent Scan Errors
- Keep Malwarebytes and your system updated regularly
- Avoid running multiple antivirus programs simultaneously
- Scan at times when your system is idle and not running heavy tasks
- Use Quick Scan periodically, Full Scan occasionally
Conclusion
Malwarebytes scan errors can be caused by outdated software, conflicts, or corrupted files, but most issues are easily fixable. Start by updating Malwarebytes, checking system resources, and running as administrator. If the problem persists, a clean reinstall or contacting Malwarebytes support ensures your scans run smoothly and your device remains protected.
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