The original mdm.exe is a genuine process. However, it is not uncommon for malware to have the same name as a genuine process file. If you find that mdm.exe is not located in its usual location or there are two entries by the name mdm.exe under the Processes tab in the Windows Task Manager window, you can be almost certain that your computer is infected.

How to check if mdm.exe running is safe

Check the location of the file first. The genuine mdm.exe is located in the folder C:WindowsSystem 32. An mdm.exe located in some other location is a cause for concern. You should immediately run a virus scan to ensure that your computer is not infected or to remove present malware and secure the computer once again.

The other thing you can do is open Task Manager and check how many mdm.exe are running. If more than one is running, you may well be looking at a malware-related issue.

To open the Task Manager window, perform the following steps:

• Click Ctrl+Alt+Del
• Click the Processes tab
• Browse through the listed entries to check how many mdm.exe are running

Malicious programs that are known to disguise themselves as mdm.exe

The following malware is known to hide itself as mdm.exe:

• W32. Unubot.B
• W32.Sdbot.APE
• W32. Rbot.AIJ
• W32.Agobot.AQ
• W32.Bckdr-QJR

What to do when your computer is infected with malware disguised as mdm.exe

If your desktop is infected, perform the following steps in the same order they appear here.

Update your antivirus tool – Open your antivirus tool’s interface and click on the Update button to update it with the latest virus definitions and signature. If up till now you haven’t used an antivirus application, download and install one immediately. When purchasing a new antivirus tool, be mindful about the following things: (1) ensure that the tool is compatible with your Windows operating system, (2) it provides real-time protection, (3) it doesn’t consume too much resources, (4) it is fast. Update your new antivirus tool once the installation is complete.

Disconnect your computer from the Internet – Next disconnect your Windows computer from any network that it is connected to.

Reboot Windows in the Safe Mode – Close all open applications and programs and restart Windows. Next press and hold the F8 key as your computer boots to enter into the Advanced Boot Menu. Here, using the arrow keys on your keyboard, select Safe Mode and press Enter.

Run a full system scan – Finally run a full system scan to get rid of the malicious mdm.exe and other malware files.