Other contributing factors include the timing of software updates and the inclusion of certain files in system backup snapshots or shadow copies, which can lead to false positives. It’s crucial to recognize that this detection may not represent a true threat but could instead be a misclassification of harmless data as harmful. The incorrect malware detection by Microsoft Defender in this instance originated after a security intelligence update in December, specifically version 1.403.1079.0. In most cases, the issue can be resolved by whitelisting the Profiles folder. This guide will demonstrate how to address the Microsoft Defender detection using various methods, covering different scenarios.
Check Malware Detection Source
To determine if the malware warning from Microsoft Defender results from Mozilla Firefox, examine the file path of the affected item. If the file path includes “Mozilla” or “Firefox,” the web browser is likely the cause. If there is no mention of Firefox in the file path, then your computer might be infected by actual malware, and you should perform a system-wide security scan. Refer to the last method in this guide if this is the case.
1. Clear Protection History
Clearing Microsoft Defender’s protection history is an effective first step to resolve any erroneous detections, which should remove the issue. No direct option exists for clearing the protection history in Microsoft Defender, requiring you to manually delete the history files in File Explorer.
2. Exclude Firefox Profiles Folder
Whitelisting the Profiles folder in Mozilla Firefox’s cache can rectify the incorrect malware detection by preventing Microsoft Defender from scanning this directory, thus eliminating the issue.
3. Clear Firefox Cache on Close and Delete Shadow Copies
Resolving the Trojan:HTML/Phish!pz detection can be as simple as setting Firefox to clear its cache upon closing and deleting Windows’ shadow copies—snapshots of files used for restoration purposes. This process is particularly helpful when encountering the issue during backups:
4. Update Mozilla Firefox
An outdated Mozilla Firefox may be to blame for the invalid Trojan:HTML/Phish!pz detection. Any inconsistencies usually get addressed in newer versions, so keeping Firefox up-to-date is essential:
5. Run Security Scan
If none of the above methodologies resolve the Trojan:HTML/Phish!pz detection and it’s not caused by Firefox, a comprehensive security scan may be needed. You have the option of various third-party antivirus tools or Windows Defender, which can be effective if your system is up to date:
