
Runtime Errors Troubleshooting and Repair

What is Runtime Packed FSG?

Fast Good Small Compression

If your computer security software alerts you to a runtime packed FSG program, you may be wondering, “What is a runtime packed FSG?” or “Does this mean I have a computer virus?” A runtime packed FSG is usually an executable file that has been compressed, or packed, by a packer program known as the FSG Packer. The FSG stands for “Fast Good Small.”

Runtime identifier

Packer programs are much like the more familiar file compressors such as WinZip. Like compressors, a packer makes the file smaller. However, packer programs also keep the application’s code secret which is a plus for software developers who want to protect their proprietary code. The code is compressed by the program and decompressed as the program is run, thus the “runtime” identifier in runtime packed FSG.

Malicious code hidden within the FSG Packed file

While packer programs are good for developers who want to keep their executable codes to themselves, they have been exploited by malware makers. Since FSG Packer and similar packing tools encrypt the contents of the file, it’s difficult for computer security products to determine if the executable file is dangerous or not. When an executable that has been packed by FSG is detected on your computer, your antivirus program may detect the file’s signature and recognize it as having been packed with FSG. When this happens, you may see an alert telling you that your computer security software has detected a runtime packed FSG.

Possibility of an Exploit

Since you now know that legitimate software developers use FSG packing technology to make their files faster and smaller as well as to combat potential software pirates by protecting the file’s proprietary code, you know not to panic. Your computer may or may not have a virus. Your software is simply telling you that it has detected a questionable program that uses a technology that has been exploited in the past.

Run your antivirus program of choice immediately

This doesn’t mean that you can rest easy, click OK, and not worry about the runtime packed FSG file. Your antivirus software will likely tell you the file’s name and location, thus giving you clues as to the program’s credibility. From there, you’ll need to determine if the program is safe. For example, if you recently purchased a legitimate program from a reputable software developer and it’s been tagged by your computer security software as being a runtime packed FSG file, then the program is most likely safe to run and use without fear of virus or spyware infections. On the other hand, if you recently downloaded a free screensaver or computer game from a random Web site and the download is triggering runtime packed FSG warnings, you’d be wise to let your security software quarantine the file.

Like many technologies, packer programs themselves are not dangerous. The way that people use these programs is where the danger lies. Your computer security software will give let you know that you need to use care because the file bears the runtime packed FSG signature.

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