March 24, 2025, midnight

What to Do If Your Antivirus Is Blocking a Game

Running into issues where your antivirus software is blocking your favourite game? This common problem can be frustrating, but the good news is that it's often straightforward to fix. Here's a guide on how to address this issue.

1. Identify the Problem

First, ensure your antivirus is actually the culprit. Temporarily disable your antivirus software and try running the game. If the game works, then it's clear the antivirus is blocking it.

2. Add the Game to the Exclusions List

Most antivirus programs have an exclusion list where you can add specific applications to prevent them from being scanned or blocked. Here’s how to do it:

  • Open your antivirus software.
  • Navigate to the settings or advanced options.
  • Find the exclusions or exceptions section.
  • Add your game’s executable file to the list.

Save your changes and restart your game to see if it resolves the issue.

3. Update Your Antivirus Software

Sometimes, antivirus programs block games due to outdated virus definitions. Ensure your antivirus software is up-to-date. Check for updates and install any available patches.

4. Check for False Positives

In some cases, the antivirus may incorrectly flag the game as a threat. If you suspect a false positive, contact the antivirus support team. They can help verify if the game is safe and adjust their database accordingly.

5. Reinstall Your Game

Occasionally, corrupted files can cause your antivirus to flag a game. Try reinstalling the game completely. Uninstall it, restart your computer, and then install the game again from a trusted source.

6. Conduct a Full System Scan

Run a comprehensive system scan to ensure there are no actual threats present on your computer. This can also help identify if the problem lies with other software interfering with the game.

7. Contact Game Support

If none of the above steps work, reach out to the game’s support team. They might have specific advice for your situation or be able to provide a patch to resolve the issue.

Conclusion

Having your antivirus block a game is a hassle, but by following these steps, you can usually resolve the issue without too much trouble. Remember to keep both your antivirus software and your games updated to avoid future conflicts.