Before You Buy: About the Windows Security Warning
When you install PetrichorPages on Windows, you will likely see a warning screen that looks like this:
Windows protected your PC Microsoft Defender SmartScreen prevented an unrecognized app from starting. Running this app might put your PC at risk. [More info]
This is expected, and it does not mean the software is unsafe.
Why this happens
Windows shows this warning for any application that isn’t digitally signed with a certificate from a recognized publisher. Obtaining that certification is a separate, ongoing process independent of the software itself — it doesn’t reflect the safety or quality of the application. As an independent developer, PetrichorPages is not yet signed with this certification.
What to do
If you see this warning during installation:
- Click “More info” on the warning screen.
- Click “Run anyway”.
- Continue with installation as normal.
Is this safe?
This warning appears based solely on whether an application is signed, not on any scan of the application’s actual contents. Many legitimate applications from independent developers and small businesses show this same warning. If you’d like to verify the download yourself before running it, you’re welcome to scan the installer with your own antivirus software first.
We plan to obtain code-signing certification in the future, at which point this warning will no longer appear. In the meantime, thank you for your understanding.
Questions? Contact us at customersupport@Petrichorpages.com