Threat Database Adware Adware.PicRec

Adware.PicRec

By CagedTech in Adware
Published:
Last updated:

Threat Scorecard

Popularity Rank: 21,016
Threat Level: 20 % (Normal)
Infected Computers: 20,038
First Seen: August 25, 2014
Last Seen: August 26, 2026
OS(es) Affected: Windows

The detection of Adware.PicRec on your system indicates the presence of unwanted software that may be compromising your online experience and potentially putting your personal data at risk. Adware, short for advertising-supported software, is designed to display unwanted advertisements, collect user data, and sometimes even install additional malicious software. Understanding what Adware.PicRec is and how it operates is crucial in taking the right steps to remove it from your computer and prevent future infections.

What Is Adware.PicRec?

Adware.PicRec, as suggested by its name, falls under the category of adware. This type of malware is primarily aimed at generating revenue for its developers by displaying advertisements, which can range from pop-ups and banners to more intrusive forms like videos and audio ads. Unlike other forms of malware that focus on directly stealing data or extorting money, adware is more about disrupting the user experience and exploiting the system for financial gain through advertising.

How Adware.PicRec Operates

Adware.PicRec, like other adware programs, operates by infiltrating a system, often through bundled software downloads, infected websites, or phishing emails. Once installed, it can modify browser settings, install additional software, and start displaying unwanted advertisements. It may also collect user data, such as browsing history and search queries, to tailor the ads and make them more appealing, thereby increasing the likelihood of clicks and, consequently, revenue. The presence of adware can lead to a slower system performance, increased risk of other infections, and a significant invasion of privacy.

Symptoms of Infection

Symptoms of an adware infection can vary but commonly include an increase in the number of advertisements displayed on web pages, unexpected pop-ups, and changes in browser settings such as a new homepage or default search engine. Users may also notice that their computer is running slower than usual or that certain programs are not functioning as expected. In some cases, adware can lead to more severe issues, including data theft and the installation of additional malware.

  • Increased number of ads on web pages and pop-ups
  • Changes in browser settings without user consent
  • Slow system performance
  • Installation of unwanted software

How to Remove Adware.PicRec

  1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking to prevent the adware from interfering with the removal process.
  2. Perform a full scan of your system using a reputable anti-malware tool, such as SpyHunter, to detect and remove all traces of Adware.PicRec and other potential threats.
  3. Uninstall any suspicious programs that were recently installed or seem unnecessary.
  4. Reset your web browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, etc.) to their default settings to remove any changes made by the adware.
  5. Reboot your computer and perform another scan to ensure that all components of the adware have been removed.

Conclusion

Removing Adware.PicRec requires a combination of using the right tools, understanding how adware operates, and taking preventative measures to avoid future infections. By following the steps outlined above and maintaining good computing practices, such as regularly updating your operating system and software, avoiding suspicious downloads, and using strong, unique passwords, you can significantly reduce the risk of adware and other malware infections. Remember, vigilance and proactive measures are key to protecting your digital environment and personal data.

SpyHunter Detects & Remove Adware.PicRec

File System Details

Adware.PicRec may create the following file(s):
# File Name MD5 Detections
1. NewVersionDownloader.exe 1e5a198f9ba92557ba929af14320aed5 4,136
2. NewVersionDownloader.exe.vir a74605ff7684a970694d89d8a1edbffb 2,077
3. WindowsUpdater.exe.vir 60831569e60c64552096dae1ede0ce97 1,425
4. WindowsUpdater.exe 1bdb225ce63634d1596f468a97c315a3 174
5. import_root_cert.exe 1bb49dfa3d103b1fc766cf87eefc6237 62
6. picrdrw.sys 18b1d8435a2bfd6a2bc40db7d0b1e101 35
7. msitoexe.picrec_setup.exe de94baae05213094e4dfab816e7f2491 17
8. FilterUsageExample.exe 6adf39b1ea78488ea12b03e25b96974c 7
9. picra.exe 38b052f9e171b3c763dfae4149d3db27 7
10. wsystem.exe acaeb3499223de9beee435d1f682e51d 5
11. MsiToExe.SetupExtension.msi f378cde3366465d7a55503fe56b2f151 0
More files

Registry Details

Adware.PicRec may create the following registry entry or registry entries:
SOFTWARE\Classes\Installer\Features\DF917BEA0BDE9E345B42099FC7E14699
SOFTWARE\Classes\Installer\Products\DF917BEA0BDE9E345B42099FC7E14699
SOFTWARE\Classes\Installer\UpgradeCodes\F00C891D3452EC940A374E3DF711FAE5\DF917BEA0BDE9E345B42099FC7E14699
SOFTWARE\PicRec
SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\PicRec
SYSTEM\ControlSet001\Enum\Root\LEGACY_PICRUPDD
SYSTEM\ControlSet001\services\picrecupd
SYSTEM\ControlSet001\services\PICRUpdd
SYSTEM\ControlSet002\Enum\Root\LEGACY_PICRUPDD
SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Enum\Root\LEGACY_PICRUPDD
SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\services\picrecupd
SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\services\PICRUpdd

Directories

Adware.PicRec may create the following directory or directories:

%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\PicRec
%COMMONPROGRAMFILES%\PicRec
%LOCALAPPDATA%\PicRec
%PROGRAMFILES%\PicRec
%PROGRAMFILES%\PicRec (x86)
%PROGRAMFILES(x86)%\PicRec
%PROGRAMFILES(x86)%\PicRec (x86)