Can't find the source of this weird update dialogue

I'm getting a message (2nd time now) that, according to every check I can think of, looks to be an update from Microsoft, but it definitely shouldn't be there and isn't working properly. I've checked and the program that's running it is legit, it is a program that is supposed to be there, is signed by Microsoft, and hasn't apparently been altered or even accessed since the original installation of the OS. I've run it through anti-virus, and come up empty handed. No threat. I've run a full system scan. No threat. I've gone through every process running on my computer right now by hand and all there's not a single one I can't account for. And yet, the message I'm getting is very very wrong.

It's an update dialogue that is styled like it's from vista or 7 (additionally, in the details of the file that's launching it, Internet Explorer is mentioned, so it was created before Edge was a thing). In typical windows 7 fashion, it says that my PC is 'Entitled' to an upgrade which will get me the Fresh and new intuitive Chromium Browser. This is the part I find the most sketchy. As far as I know, Chromium is a version of the Chrome browser that is mainly if not exclusively used on Linux. It's definitely not Microsoft based, and is a competitor with IE or Edge. Windows would never install it on your computer for you.

This is the second time I have encountered this error. There is no way to decline the upgrade. Last time, I killed it in Task Manager. My spidey-sense is tingling, this doesn't feel at all right, but I don't know what steps I should take to eliminate a virus that doesn't seem to exist. Any recommendations?

TairikuOkami said:

Do not kill it, right click on it and select Open File Location. Then go up and remove the whole folder.

Can I remove "C:\Windows\SysWOW64"? It looks like a system folder and, by all accounts, it looks like it's supposed to be there. Also, as I said, it doesn't look like it's been touched since manufacture.

As for unplugging my router, that's a no-go. I don't have a router, I'm plugged directly into Ethernet (the reason why is a long story).

dencal said:

What does your Ethernet cable connect to if its not a router, supplied by your internet supplier, enabling you to use their service.
Do you have an Ethernet cable connection from your computer, other end plugged into a box of some kind.....that box is a router.

I'm living in a dorm room, so the Ethernet port in my room is connected to some router somewhere, but it is very unlikely that it has been compromised. I have a wireless router, but I've had some trouble lately with the firmware, so I'm just bypassing it for the present.

Welcome to TenForums @SpadeAndArcher

This is a known bit of malware. Probably came hidden in something you recently downloaded and installed. Run all the usual checks, ADWCleaner, Malwarebytes, etc..
Malwarebytes | AdwCleaner
Malwarebytes | Free Anti-Malware & Malware Removal

This Buzzfeed post has a picture of the same popup as your screenshot ...

“Automatic Update. There is a Recommended Update for this PC…” pop-up is not actually generated by the Windows OS, it is caused by a PUP (potentially unwanted program) and its purpose is to trick you into installing more unwanted programs.... The easiest method to stop “There is a Recommended Update for this PC” pop-ups is to run an anti-malware program....

Way To Remove “There Is A Recommended Update For This PC” Pop-Up

Bree said:

Welcome to TenForums @SpadeAndArcher

This is a known bit of malware. Probably came hidden in something you recently downloaded and installed. Run all the usual checks, ADWCleaner, Malwarebytes, etc..
Malwarebytes | AdwCleaner
Malwarebytes | Free Anti-Malware & Malware Removal

This Buzzfeed post has a picture of the same popup as your screenshot ...
Way To Remove “There Is A Recommended Update For This PC” Pop-Up

Thank you. The problem is that I ran antivirus and couldn't find anything. Also, I didnt download anything that was suspicious, so I have nothing to go on to find out how to remove it. I know I have a virus, I just can't find it.

"I ran antivirus and couldn't find anything"

FWIW, I recently had a similar problem. I ran 5 different virus and malware scanners before the sixth one finally found and eliminated my problem. The winner was HitmanPro. Lesson learned: Be persistent.

C.B.

SpadeAndArcher said:

The problem is that I ran antivirus and couldn't find anything...

Just one? If so, which? Defender? Some malware is good at hiding, running several different scanners is often required before you can catch them all. If you have not used it yet, run ADWCleaner for a second opinion. It doesn't require an install, just download and run it.

You could also try Windows Defender Offline which scans without the OS running - malware processes can't hide if they're not loaded.
Windows Defender Offline Scan in Windows 10