Potential fixes for getting rid of Windows Defender SmartScreen

[meshuggahtas]

Note: All these options needs to be performed again if you download it.

If you update the program frequently and don’t want to repeat these steps:
Compile the new version directly on your machine into the C:\AITD-tools\ folder to avoid reapplying the "mark of the web."

I've used Option 1 personally.

1. Right Click -> Properties -> Unblock

• Steps:
  1. Right-click the executable file (e.g., VarsViewer.exe).
  2. Select "Properties" from the context menu.
  3. In the "General" tab, check the box labeled "Unblock" (if it’s visible) near the bottom.
  4. Click "Apply" and then "OK."
• Effect: Removes the "mark of the web" that triggers SmartScreen, allowing the program to run without the warning on your machine.
• Time: Less than 1 minute.

2. Unblock via PowerShell

• Steps:
  1. Open PowerShell (search for "PowerShell" in the Start menu).
  2. Type: Unblock-File -Path "C:\AITD-tools\VarsViewer.exe".
  3. Press Enter.
• Effect: Same as the "Unblock" option in Properties, but scriptable if you need to do it for multiple files.
• Time: 1-2 minutes.

3. Submit File for Malware Analysis

• Microsoft Defender Submission:
  • Steps:
    1. Go to: Microsoft Security Intelligence - Submit a File.
    2. Sign in with a Microsoft account (free to create if you don’t have one).
    3. Upload your file (VarsViewer.exe) and explain it’s a legitimate program flagged by SmartScreen.
    4. Submit the form.
  • Effect: If Microsoft reviews and clears it, future SmartScreen warnings may decrease (not instant, depends on their processing).
  • Time: 5-10 minutes.