Threat Database Adware Adware.PCTuto

Adware.PCTuto

By CagedTech in Adware
Published:
Last updated:

Threat Scorecard

Threat Level: 20 % (Normal)
Infected Computers: 461
First Seen: April 24, 2015
Last Seen: January 12, 2025
OS(es) Affected: Windows

The detection of Adware.PCTuto on your system indicates the presence of unwanted software that may be displaying advertisements, collecting data, or performing other potentially unwanted actions. This type of software can compromise your online security and privacy, making it essential to take immediate action to remove it.

What Is Adware.PCTuto?

Adware.PCTuto is a type of adware program designed to display unwanted advertisements, collect user data, or redirect users to suspicious websites. Adware programs like Adware.PCTuto can be bundled with free software, attached to email attachments, or downloaded from infected websites. Once installed, they can operate in the background, consuming system resources and potentially causing other issues.

How Adware.PCTuto Operates

Adware.PCTuto, like other adware programs, operates by infiltrating a system and establishing a connection to its command and control servers. From there, it can receive instructions to display advertisements, collect user data, or perform other malicious actions. Adware programs can also modify system settings, registry entries, and browser configurations to maintain their presence on the infected system. They may also attempt to evade detection by using various techniques, such as code obfuscation or anti-detection methods.

Symptoms of Infection

Systems infected with Adware.PCTuto may exhibit various symptoms, including an increase in unwanted advertisements, pop-ups, or browser redirects. Users may also notice slower system performance, unexpected crashes, or errors. Additionally, adware programs can collect user data, such as browsing history, search queries, or personal information, which can be used for targeted advertising or other malicious purposes. In some cases, infected systems may also experience issues with browser settings, such as changed home pages, default search engines, or the appearance of suspicious toolbars.

  • Unwanted advertisements or pop-ups
  • Browser redirects or changed search results
  • Slower system performance or crashes
  • Collection of user data or personal information
  • Changes to browser settings or the appearance of suspicious toolbars

How to Remove Adware.PCTuto

  1. Boot your system in Safe Mode with Networking to prevent the adware from loading and to allow for a more effective removal process.
  2. Use a reputable anti-malware tool, such as SpyHunter, to perform a full scan of your system and detect any malicious components related to Adware.PCTuto.
  3. Uninstall any suspicious programs or applications that may be related to the adware infection.
  4. Reset your web browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, to their default settings to remove any changes made by the adware.
  5. Reboot your system and perform a follow-up scan with your anti-malware tool to ensure that all malicious components have been removed.

Conclusion

Removing Adware.PCTuto from your system requires a combination of technical knowledge and the right tools. By following the steps outlined above, you can effectively remove the adware and prevent further infections. It is essential to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to protect your system, such as keeping your operating system and software up to date, using reputable anti-malware tools, and avoiding suspicious downloads or email attachments. By taking these steps, you can help ensure the security and integrity of your system and protect your personal data from potential threats.

SpyHunter Detects & Remove Adware.PCTuto

Registry Details

Adware.PCTuto may create the following registry entry or registry entries:
CLSID
{0BF73E27-2734-4F7B-925A-4BBB1457F5FA}
{293A63F7-C3B6-423a-9845-901AC0A7EE6E}
{759F1421-4D31-4c1f-8C51-E4956A037676}
{E2ED56B6-35FC-4484-9530-EC87FB458E78}
Regexp file mask
%PROGRAMFILES%\Agence-Exclusive\pctutoBHO.dll
SOFTWARE\Classes\AppID\PCTutoBHO.DLL
SOFTWARE\Classes\PCTutoBHO.PCTBHO
SOFTWARE\Classes\PCTutoBHO.PCTBHO.1
SOFTWARE\Classes\Wow6432Node\AppID\PCTutoBHO.DLL
SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\explorer\Browser Helper Objects\{293A63F7-C3B6-423a-9845-901AC0A7EE6E}
Software\PCTuto
SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Classes\AppID\PCTutoBHO.DLL
SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\explorer\Browser Helper Objects\{293A63F7-C3B6-423a-9845-901AC0A7EE6E}
SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\PCTuto

Directories

Adware.PCTuto may create the following directory or directories:

%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\pctuto
%APPDATA%\PCTuto
%LOCALAPPDATA%\PCTuto
%PROGRAMFILES%\PCTuto
%PROGRAMFILES(X86)%\PCTuto
%UserProfile%\Local Settings\Application Data\PCTuto