By Sean Endicott
Publication Date: 2026-08-19 14:45:00
Microsoft claims that Windows 11’s built-in security tool is enough for most PC users, but that’s only the case if the tool works. An issue affecting some PCs prevents security scans from being completed, leaving systems potentially vulnerable.
The problem was flagged on Reddit by user Huynh_Jovi. Several users in that thread have had issues running scans with Microsoft Defender. Both Full Scan and Quick Scan appear to be affected.
Pinned at the top of that thread is a comment by a moderator that gathers together key information on the situation.
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“It appears Microsoft released a bad update to Windows Defender, causing it to crash a few seconds after attempting to perform a Full Scan or Quick Scan,” reads the comment by user goretsky. They continue, stating, “Offline scans reportedly stop at around 90-93% of completion.” The latest version of the Microsoft Safety Scanner is reportedly affected as well.
The exact cause of the issue has not been…



