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I am using Kaspersky Antivirus, I've added mIRC to the exclusions list for all services.

In the past, users have reported that Kaspersky Antivirus can still block or interefere with mIRC in some way even when mIRC is added to the exclusion list, as it considers IRC a risk. It is specifically aware of mIRC, as the most widely used client. If the issue continues, you may find a solution in the Kaspersky forums.