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Learn how to prevent unauthorized Screenshots.Executable Directory
Our ultimate directory of Windows PC executables.The file intel_cst_helper_service.exe, published by Microsoft Windows Hardware Compatibility Publisher, is a component of Intel's Context Sensing Technology (CST). This technology enables features like "Wake on Approach" and "Walk Away Lock" by detecting user presence, enhancing device functionality through environmental data such as location, proximity, and motion.
You might have this executable on your machine if your system includes Intel hardware that supports CST. It's typically installed as part of the Intel Dynamic Platform and Thermal Framework or similar Intel software packages. While researching online I found that Dell hardware can sometimes have this Intel proximity feature.
The file is usually located in the Windows system directories and is signed by Intel Corporation.
Below are 4 simple steps you can take to see if the intel_cst_helper_service.exe process is safe or malware.
Researched by Laura @ 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 Microsoft Windows Hardware Compatibility Publisher should be the publisher of intel_cst_helper_service.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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