A false-positive Microsoft Security Essentials update has found itself to be removing Google Chrome from hundreds upon hundreds of Windows machines.
The problem first appeared in a Google support thread with over 200 replies. Users are claiming that a recent Microsoft Security Essentials update has identified Google Chrome as a severe threat, which means the Security Essentials program will automatically remove the software.
Microsoft Security Essentials reported Google Chrome to be a PWS:Win32/Zbot virus. Microsoft have said that they are releasing a new definition file update for Security Essentials which will fix the false-positive.
Microsoft have said: “On September 30th, 2011, an incorrect detection for PWS:Win32/Zbot was identified. On September 30th, 2011, Microsoft released an update that addresses the issue. Signature versions 1.113.672.0 and higher include this update. PWS:Win32/Zbot is a password-stealing trojan that monitors for visits to certain Web sites. It allows limited backdoor access and control and may terminate certain security-related processes.”
