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Error Code 0x80004004

Anonymous
2015-08-10T02:08:10+00:00

I am using Window 8.1 or 8.2 not sure how to even find out any longer.

I was concerned I had a hijacked "homepage" and using Defender - requested Check for Updates prior to running a full scan.

I tried three separate times and it just stuck in the same spot on the graph.  I let it run for about four hours and when I came back to my machine I found the following popup.  I am trying to find out more information.  I read that it means "operation aborted" from a 2009 post,  but nothing more. 

I created a snipit of the window however cannot Ctrl V the graphic.  

It states definition updates could not be installed.   Please try again later...  I did try again today, but again the bar just stopped in the same spot. 

I followed the directions on MS to remove the "Homepage" hijack, but am concerned.   I also downloaded the MS Safety Scanner and ran a full scan - nothing detected thank goodness. 

I appreciate any information you could provide.  

Thank you,  Dee

Windows for home | Previous Windows versions | Security and privacy

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  1. Anonymous
    2015-08-10T04:53:49+00:00

    You're most likely running Win8.1 but you may wish to make sure here.

    You must address any potential infection issues before considering to upgrade to Windows 10 (if you're planning to do so :).

    Now, is it this what you're seeing?

    Error code 0x80004004 means 'Operation aborted', which might be due to one or several reasons, including but not limited to inter-connection problems, malware blocking, conflicting security software, other unknown issues.

    Most likely malware related since you recently experienced some browser hijacking issues. What have you tried already to solve this? The removal guide suggested above by Bruce may be of assistance.

    If Microsoft Antimalware software (WD and MSS) gives you a clean bill, you may wish to go for a second opinion check using other on-demand scanners such as MBAM (Free version only! <= Avoid the 14-day trial of the Premium version which is offered during the install process) and the ESET Online Scanner, to make sure your PC is malware-free. A good anti-adware tool such as AdwCleaner may also be a good idea to ensure there is no Adware or PUP that might have been installed there with or without your knowledge or consent.

    If any threats are detected by any of these tools, please do jot down their detection name(s), location, and actions taken.

    If the WD's update error persist, try the following diagnostic/troubleshooting steps to check:

    You may also try to manually download the (large file with engine and full definitions) latest definitions directly from the MMPC portal here. Please note that this is a 'silent install' - nothing will appear to happen when you double-click the downloaded file, but it shall be installed behind the scenes.

    Also see: Troubleshooting General Errors while Updating.

    • If the issue persist, you may wish to consider a refresh (or other options) of the OS.

    Please return to this thread to tell us how it goes.

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  2. Anonymous
    2015-08-10T02:29:46+00:00

    The Safety Scanner doesn't do anything Windows Defender can't do. If you are trying to explain a browser hijacker, see this.

    How to remove Any Browser Redirect virus (Removal Guide)
    http://malwaretips.com/blogs/remove-browser-redirect-virus/

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