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What’s docker-credential-desktop.exe? Is it safe or a virus?

`docker-credential-desktop.exe` is a helper program provided by Docker Inc. as part of Docker Desktop. It manages and securely stores Docker credentials using the credential store mechanism of the host operating system. Instead of manually handling passwords or authentication tokens, this executable interacts with Docker to retrieve or save credentials, ensuring a more secure authentication process when interacting with private Docker registries, such as Docker Hub or others. It works seamlessly in the background, simplifying user authentication during container-related tasks by securely managing sensitive information on behalf of the Docker CLI.

Researched by Carl @ SpyShelter Labs

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A Trojan is a harmful software that pretends to be a legitimate program or file to deceive users into downloading it. It can steal personal information, damage files, or give hackers control over the infected device.

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More about docker-credential-desktop.exe on WINDOWS

Who makes docker-credential-desktop.exe?

We’ve found Docker Inc should be the publisher of docker-credential-desktop.exe.

How do we know? Our SpyShelter cybersecurity labs focuses on monitoring different types of Windows PC executables and their behaviors for our popular SpyShelter Antispyware software. Learn more about us, and how our cybersecurity team studies Windows PC executables/processes.

What does it mean if someone is the publisher of a PC .exe (executable or process)?

The publisher of an executable is the entity responsible for its distribution and authenticity. Most processes/executables on your PC should be signed. The signature on the executable should have been verified through a third party whose job it is to make sure the entity is who it says it is. Find an unsigned executable? You should consider scanning any completely unsigned .exe on your PC.

Last updated: March 19, 2025

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Why should you trust us?

Our team at SpyShelter has been studying Windows PC executables for over 15 years, to help fight against spyware, malware, and other threats. SpyShelter has been featured in publications like The Register, PC Magazine, and many others. Now we’re working to share free, actionable, and easy to understand information about Windows executables (processes) with the world, to help as many people as possible keep their devices safe. Learn more about us on our "About SpyShelter” page.

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