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What’s DeviceCensus.exe (Device Census)? Is it safe or a virus?

DeviceCensus.exe is a process by Microsoft that runs in the background and collects data related to the hardware and software configuration of the user's device.

DeviceCensus.exe helps Microsoft gather information on how users interact with their devices, what kind of hardware they use, and which applications are installed. This data is then used to make targeted improvements and updates to the Windows OS. While DeviceCensus.exe is a legitimate process, some users may choose to disable it if they have concerns about privacy and data collection.

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 DeviceCensus.exe on WINDOWS

Who makes DeviceCensus.exe (Device Census)?

We’ve found Microsoft Windows should be the publisher of DeviceCensus.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: February 3, 2024

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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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