Avast studio64.exe False Positive

TL;DR

Avast sometimes incorrectly flags studio64.exe as ransomware. This guide explains how to report the false positive and exclude the file from future scans.

Step-by-Step Solution

1. Identify studio64.exe: First, confirm where studio64.exe is located on your computer. It’s usually part of a legitimate software installation (e.g., video editing or rendering programs). Note the full file path – you’ll need this later.
   • Right-click on the studio64.exe file in File Explorer.
   • Select ‘Properties’.
   • Look at the ‘Location’ field to find its directory.
2. Report False Positive to Avast: The best way to resolve this is by telling Avast it’s a mistake.
   • Open your Avast Antivirus interface.
   • Go to ‘Protection’ > ‘Viruses & Malware’.
   • Click on ‘False Positives’. (If you can’t find this directly, look for an option like ‘Submit a file for analysis’).
   • Select the option to submit a file.
   • Browse to the location of studio64.exe and select it.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the submission. You’ll likely need an Avast account.
3. Exclude studio64.exe from Scans (Temporary Solution): While waiting for Avast to update, you can exclude the file to prevent further interruptions.
   • In your Avast interface, go to ‘Protection’ > ‘Core Shields’.
   • Click on ‘Settings’.
   • Select ‘Exceptions’.
   • Click ‘Add Exception’.
   • Choose ‘File Path’.
   • Enter the full file path of studio64.exe (the one you noted in Step 1).
   • Save your changes.
4. Check for Avast Updates: Avast regularly updates its virus definitions.
   • Open the Avast interface.
   • Click on ‘Updates’.
   • Ensure all components are up to date. This may automatically resolve the false positive after a definition update.
5. Verify with VirusTotal (Optional): For extra peace of mind, you can scan studio64.exe on VirusTotal.
   • Go to the VirusTotal website.
   • Upload the studio64.exe file.
   • Review the scan results from multiple antivirus engines. If most engines report it as safe, it further supports the case of a false positive.

Important Note: Excluding a file bypasses Avast’s protection for that specific file. Only exclude files you are absolutely certain are safe. If you’re unsure, do not exclude it and continue to report the false positive.