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Our ultimate directory of Windows PC executables.PIconStartup.exe is a legitimate executable developed by Intel Corporation, associated with the Intel® Management Engine Components. Specifically, it is part of the Privacy Icon Client, which is included in the Intel® Management and Security Status (IMSS) application.
This utility is designed to provide users with a visual indication—typically an icon—that Intel's Active Management Technology (AMT) is active on the system. AMT allows for remote management capabilities, enabling system administrators to diagnose, repair, or manage systems even when they are powered off.
The presence of PIconStartup.exe ensures that users are informed about the remote management functionalities available on their system. It's commonly found in enterprise environments where such remote management features are utilized.
For home users, this process is generally unnecessary and can be disabled without affecting system performance.
Below are 4 simple steps you can take to see if the PIconStartup.exe process is safe or malware.
Researched by Carl @ SpyShelter Labs
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.
Download SpyShelter to see detailed safety information about every .exe on your PC.
Check your PC for threatsWe’ve found Intel(R) Embedded Subsystems and IP Blocks Group should be the publisher of PIconStartup.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.
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.
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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