IDP.Generic

IDP.Generic is an AVG heuristic or behavior detection for spyware that collects identity-related information. As a generic alert, it may be a false positive of an innocent file or program, although users always should act as if the threat is real until they can confirm otherwise. In cases of legitimate danger, updated anti-malware software should immediately remove IDP.Generic.

Data-Collecting Danger that could be Real or Illusory

Like finding the clues in a mystery novel, the building blocks of threat detection on the Web often are small and build off of telltale, behavioral quirks. Heuristic or behavior-based threat entries are responsible for some of the most comprehensive and flexible protection to Web surfers but can be trigger-happy. IDP.Generic, an AVG-brand umbrella term for identity-threatening spyware, exemplifies both sides of this software analysis method in practice.

IDP.Generic is, unsurprisingly, the generic classification for a threat caught by AVG's identity protection (IDP) module. Attacks by this spyware are likely to include data exfiltration to various degrees. Examples malware analysts emphasize are keylogging (recording keyboard information), screen-grabbing (taking screenshots), collecting credentials like passwords, or redirecting users to copycat phishing sites, such as fake bank sign-in domains. Users should note that, other than possible redirects to unwanted websites, most of these attacks show no symptoms while collecting the information.

However, all behavior-based umbrella threats have higher chances of inaccuracy than a more-specific detection. An IDP.Generic can also be a false positive, more likely from security programs with outdated threat databases. False positives also can be typical for games, those with highly-restrictive DRM or anti-cheat mechanisms and other sophisticated software, particularly.

Still, users should never assume that an alert is false by default unless they can confirm the file's source and safety.

What to Do after Generic Threat Exposure

Depending on the circumstances of contact with IDP.Generic, different steps can be necessary to deal with the problem and secure the system. If the alert is legitimate during a download, users should let their preferred security products quarantine or remove the file. If the warning occurs after the threat's possible installation or activation, users should thoroughly disinfect their systems. They should also strongly consider changing passwords and undertaking other steps to prevent attackers from conducting unauthorized activity with their accounts.

False positives, usually, are fixable by users just downloading all patches and updates for their security solutions. In cases where an incorrect IDP.Generic alert continues, malware experts recommend manually whitelisting (setting an exception for) the file or program and contacting the company to inform them of the problem. Generally, false positives in threat databases receive prompt correction in future updates.

Concerning threatening detection scenarios, users never should try removing IDP.Generic by themselves and always dedicated appropriate cyber-security services to the task. Spyware often includes advanced defenses against identification or removal by the victim.

Even in the broadest terms, any threat appearance is worth looking at with a straight face and a cautious attitude. Not taking IDP.Generic with the due seriousness it warrants is the online equivalent of leaving a wallet in a pocket with a hole in it: a risk with no reward.