I found a startup entry named "yzqxc.vbs" on my computer. It has an unfamiliar, randomly generated-looking name and no normal Windows application icon. Is this a legitimate program, or could it be malware? What is the safest way to identify it without accidentally running the script?
3 Answers
A short, random-looking script name in the startup list is suspicious, but it is not proof of an infection. The file path and script contents matter much more. Check whether it belongs inside a known application’s installation folder; if it is sitting in a temporary, user profile, or otherwise unfamiliar directory, treat it cautiously and scan it before removing or disabling it.
The .vbs extension means it is a VBScript file. VBScript can be used by legitimate older software, but it can also execute commands, so the filename alone is not enough to determine whether it is safe. Right-click the startup entry and choose Open file location. Do not double-click the file; instead, inspect its location and open a copy with Notepad or another text editor. You can also scan the file with a reputable antivirus or an online multi-engine scanner.
I couldn’t copy the entire script, but I was able to inspect the beginning of it.
You can disable the startup item first so it no longer runs automatically, then investigate the file. If scans identify malware or the computer shows other signs of compromise, back up important personal files and consider a clean operating-system reinstall. Change important passwords from a separate, trusted device, especially if the script has already been running.
I do have a few emulators installed, so I’m wondering whether one of them created it.