Running regular Malwarebytes scans is crucial for keeping your system safe from malware, viruses, and other threats. However, some users face the problem of Malwarebytes scans failing to complete, freezing midway, or stopping unexpectedly. This can happen due to software conflicts, corrupted files, system performance issues, or outdated versions. Fortunately, there are several effective troubleshooting steps to resolve this issue.
Common Causes of Scan Failures
- Conflicting Security Programs – Other antivirus or firewall software may block Malwarebytes scans.
- Corrupted Installation Files – Damaged Malwarebytes files can prevent scans from finishing.
- Outdated Malwarebytes Version – Older versions may not be compatible with recent updates or malware definitions.
- System Resource Limitations – Low memory or CPU usage can cause scans to freeze.
- Specific Malware or File Conflicts – Some malware or protected system files may interfere with scanning.
How to Fix Malwarebytes Scan Fails to Complete
1. Restart Malwarebytes and Your System
- Close Malwarebytes completely using Task Manager (Windows) or Force Quit (macOS)
- Restart your computer to free system resources
- Launch Malwarebytes and try scanning again
2. Update Malwarebytes
- Go to Settings → About → Check for Updates
- Update both Malwarebytes and its malware database
- Restart the software after updates to ensure smooth scanning
3. Run Malwarebytes as Administrator
- Right-click the Malwarebytes shortcut
- Select Run as Administrator
- This ensures full access to all files and prevents permission-related scan failures
4. Disable Conflicting Software Temporarily
- Temporarily disable other antivirus programs, firewalls, or VPNs
- Retry the scan
- Re-enable security programs after the scan completes
5. Perform a Clean Installation
- Uninstall Malwarebytes completely from your system
- Use the Malwarebytes Cleanup Tool to remove residual files
- Download the latest version from Malwarebytes official website
- Reinstall Malwarebytes and run a scan
6. Scan in Safe Mode (Windows)
- Restart your PC in Safe Mode with Networking
- Open Malwarebytes and perform a scan
- Safe Mode minimizes interference from other software, allowing scans to complete successfully
7. Exclude Specific Files or Folders
- Sometimes protected system files or large directories can cause scan failures
- Go to Settings → Exclusions → Add Exclusions and temporarily exclude problem files
- Run the scan again
8. Contact Malwarebytes Support
- If scans still fail, visit Malwarebytes Support
- Provide Malwarebytes version, OS details, scan type, and any error messages
- Support can provide advanced troubleshooting steps or resolve technical issues remotely
Tips to Prevent Scan Failures
- Keep Malwarebytes updated to the latest version
- Avoid running multiple antivirus programs at the same time
- Ensure your system has sufficient memory and CPU resources during scans
- Restart your system regularly to keep services running smoothly
Conclusion
A Malwarebytes scan failing to complete can compromise your system’s protection, but most scan issues are caused by outdated software, conflicting programs, or permission problems. By updating Malwarebytes, running it as administrator, disabling conflicts, performing a clean installation, scanning in Safe Mode, and contacting support if needed, you can ensure scans run smoothly and your system remains fully protected.
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