Google services come with a built-in scanner that adds extra protection to your data. The feature blocks potentially malicious files and prevents the user from exchanging emails that may pose a threat to their devices. Overall, it’s an efficient tool that keeps you safe from dangers other antivirus apps fail to detect.
When downloading a document, some files may slip through the antivirus and damage your OS, and all because Gmail isn’t scanning your attachments at that moment. Let’s work out a quick solution to the problem.
Why scanners fail
There are a handful of reasons that might cause the issue. Usually, you see the ‘Gmail virus scanners are temporarily unavailable’ message due to:
– Corruption in a registry file;
– Your antivirus conflicting with Gmail;
– Antivirus soft not working properly;
– The device already being infected.
If the message pops up all the time, you have to go through all the potential causes.
How to fix the scanners
You won’t be able to open any attachments unless the scanners start working again. So here’s a brief guide to deal with the broken scanners if a few steps:
Reset the browser
Start by checking if the issue is caused by the browser. If you use Chrome, click on the icon with three dots in the top right corner. Proceed to settings and open the Advanced menu; then click ‘Reset and clean up.’ The browser will restore itself to the default settings. Check if the message has disappeared. If it has – congratulations, you’ve found the culprit. If it hasn’t, try other solutions.
Check your antivirus
Next, update the antivirus. The newer version may fix the scanners or at least keep your system security up to date. If the issue persists, try deleting the software. This way, you’ll know for sure if it caused any conflicts with Gmail scanners. You can install it again if you still have the error.
Delete suspicious software
If the previous attempts proved fruitless and the problem remains, try deleting recent apps and programs you didn’t install personally. Here’s how to do it in Windows 10:
– Type ‘Control panel’ in the task bar’s search box and left-click to open it.
– Proceed to ‘Uninstall a program’ to find all software installed on your device.
– Pick the app and press the Delete button above the list.
– Once you’re done, restart Windows and check if it solved the problem.
It’s better to google the app before deleting it, as you may damage the system.
The first two solutions will most likely help you make the error go away. And until the issue isn’t solved, make sure you double-check all files you receive through the Gmail service.