why are there dangerous apps on microsoft store

Tijmen Joosten 0 Reputation points
2026-08-08T13:11:56.87+00:00

i almost got a virus on my Laptop because of an app or application that is on the microsoft store and i think that that should not be allowed to ben on microsoft store please upgrade something with what gets to be on microsoft store.
i just feel like something like this should never be able to happen

the app name is VScat i wanted to download a subtitles app and i dont know what to trust can someone help?

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Security and privacy
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  1. DYARI BARHAM 37,761 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-08-08T14:12:33.5366667+00:00

    Hi,

    I’m Dyari. Thanks for reaching out.

    Please open Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Protection history and tell me the exact threat name detected when using VSCAT. A security warning does not always confirm a virus, it may be a potentially unwanted application or an unrecognized component.

    You should also report the app directly to Microsoft. Open the VSCAT Store page, scroll to Additional information, select Report this product, and include the Defender threat name or a screenshot so the software's developers can investigate it as well.

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  2. AI answer

    2026-08-08T13:12:12.3+00:00

    Apps in Microsoft Store can still be flagged because not all unwanted or risky software is classic malware. Microsoft distinguishes between malware and potentially unwanted apps (PUA). PUA might show unwanted advertising, use the PC for cryptomining, or do other things that are undesirable even if they are not classified as malware.

    Windows includes protections to reduce this risk:

    1. Keep Microsoft Defender Antivirus active and updated. It is built into modern Windows and helps block malware and detect unwanted software.
    2. Turn on reputation-based protection and potentially unwanted app blocking in Windows Security under App & browser control.
    3. Use Microsoft Edge when downloading, because Microsoft Defender SmartScreen helps block malicious or potentially unwanted downloads.
    4. Keep Windows and apps updated so the latest protections are installed.
    5. Download only from trusted sources, including Microsoft Store, but still be cautious with unfamiliar apps.

    If an app already seems suspicious on the laptop:

    1. Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features and uninstall the app.
    2. Open Windows Security, update security intelligence, and run a full scan with Microsoft Defender Antivirus.
    3. If the issue continues, run Microsoft Defender Offline.
    4. If Microsoft Edge blocked a file that is actually safe, the download menu has an option to Report this file as safe.
    5. If suspicious files remain, they can be submitted to Microsoft for analysis.

    A practical rule for deciding what to trust:

    • Prefer apps from trusted publishers.
    • Be cautious with apps that trigger security alerts, change browser behavior, add unexpected software, or request unusual actions.
    • If an app changes browser settings, adds extensions, or behaves unexpectedly, treat it as unwanted software and remove it.
    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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