Runtime Broker Exe Safe? How to Check If Its Virus or Normal

Runtime Broker (*) is a legitimate Windows system process responsible for managing permissions for Universal Windows Platform (UWP) apps. While safe, malware can disguise itself as Runtime Broker. Here's how to verify its legitimacy:

Normal Runtime Broker Behavior

• Located in C:WindowsSystem32
• Digital signature from Microsoft Windows Publisher
• Brief CPU/Memory spikes when UWP apps open or update permissions
• Multiple instances may run if multiple UWP apps are active

How to Check for Malware

1. Verify File Location:

Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc):

• Right-click Runtime Broker process > "Open file location"
• Legitimate path: C:WindowsSystem32*
• Suspicious path: Any other location (Temp folders, AppData, etc.)

2. Check Digital Signature:

In File Explorer:

• Right-click * > Properties > Digital Signatures
• Valid signer: Microsoft Windows Publisher
• Absence or invalid signature indicates malware

3. Analyze Resource Usage:

• Use Task Manager or Resource Monitor
• Normal: Temporary low-moderate CPU/RAM use
• Suspicious: Persistent high CPU (>40%), unusual disk activity, or network usage without UWP apps running

When to Suspect Malware

• Runtime Broker running when no UWP apps are active
• Multiple identical processes with high resource consumption
• Located outside System32 folder
• Missing or corrupt digital signature
• Antivirus alerts specifically about *

Action Plan

If suspicious:

1. Perform full system scan with updated antivirus/anti-malware software
2. Verify file location and signature as above
3. Scan with specialized tools like Malwarebytes
4. If confirmed malware: Quarantine/remove threats via security software
5. Use System File Checker: Run sfc /scannow in Command Prompt (Admin) to replace system files