Windows “malware detected” warning
When installing Akrivi tools on Windows, you may see a message saying the app is unrecognized or potentially unsafe.
The warning appears because the installer isn’t signed with an enterprise certificate — not because it contains malware.
These certificates are expensive and typically used by large enterprises.
As an independent product, Akrivi does not currently use Microsoft app signing.
Thousands of designers use Akrivi safely on Windows and macOS.
You have two safe options to continue in order to bypass/ disable SmartScreen.
Option 1 (Recommended): Continue with the installer
This is the fastest and easiest option.
- When the warning appears, click More info
- Click Run anyway
- Continue following the installer steps
The installation will complete normally, and no system files or personal data are affected.
Option 2: Install manually (alternative method)
- First, locate your extensions folder on your machine:
- Windows path: C:\Program Files\Common Files\Adobe\CEP\extensions\
- And then un-zip the download Akrivi folder.
- Drag the un-zipped folder into your extensions folder.
Follow this installation guide after for more details regarding activation.
Is Akrivi safe?
Yes. Akrivi tools:
- Do not collect personal data
- Do not run background processes
- Only operate inside Adobe Illustrator
- Are used daily by thousands of designers
The warning is purely related to application signing, not malware detection.
Still unsure?
If you’re uncomfortable continuing or have questions, you can:
- Use the manual installation method above
- Contact support for help before installing
We’re happy to walk you through it.