Threat Database Adware Adware.WhenU.WhenUSearch

Adware.WhenU.WhenUSearch

By CagedTech in Adware
Published:
Last updated:

Threat Scorecard

Threat Level: 20 % (Normal)
Infected Computers: 0
First Seen: July 24, 2009
OS(es) Affected: Windows

The detection of Adware.WhenU.WhenUSearch on your system indicates the presence of a potentially unwanted program that could be compromising your computer's security and performance. This type of software is designed to display unwanted advertisements, collect user data, and potentially lead to more severe security issues if not addressed promptly.

What Is Adware.WhenU.WhenUSearch?

Adware.WhenU.WhenUSearch is a type of adware program that is known to infiltrate computer systems without the user's knowledge or consent. Its primary function is to generate revenue for its creators by displaying numerous advertisements, including pop-ups, banners, and sponsored links. This can significantly degrade the user's browsing experience and may also pose security risks due to the potential for malicious content being delivered through these ads.

How Adware.WhenU.WhenUSearch Operates

Adware programs like Adware.WhenU.WhenUSearch typically operate by embedding themselves within a system through various means, such as bundled software downloads, deceptive installations, or exploits in software vulnerabilities. Once installed, they can monitor user activity, track browsing habits, and use this information to deliver targeted advertisements. This not only invades user privacy but can also lead to the installation of additional unwanted software or malware.

Symptoms of Infection

Symptoms of an Adware.WhenU.WhenUSearch infection can vary but commonly include an increase in unwanted advertisements appearing on the screen, unexpected changes in browser settings, and a general slowdown in system performance. Users may also notice that their browser homepage or default search engine has been altered without their consent. In some cases, the adware may prevent users from changing these settings back to their preferred configurations.

  • Increased appearance of pop-ups, banners, and other forms of advertisements
  • Unexplained changes in browser settings or search engine
  • Slowdown in computer or browser performance
  • Difficulty in removing unwanted programs or changing browser settings

How to Remove Adware.WhenU.WhenUSearch

  1. Boot your computer in Safe Mode with Networking to prevent the adware from loading and to give you a clean environment to work in.
  2. Perform a full scan of your system using a reputable anti-malware tool, such as SpyHunter, to detect and remove all traces of the adware.
  3. Manually uninstall any suspicious programs that were installed around the time the adware was detected. Be cautious and only uninstall programs you are certain are not necessary for your system's operation.
  4. Reset your web browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, etc.) to their default settings to remove any changes made by the adware. This will also remove any unwanted extensions or add-ons that may have been installed.
  5. Reboot your computer and perform another scan with your anti-malware tool to ensure that all remnants of the adware have been removed.

Conclusion

Removing Adware.WhenU.WhenUSearch requires a combination of technical knowledge and the right tools. It's crucial to act quickly to prevent further damage to your system and to protect your personal data. By following the steps outlined above and maintaining good computing habits, such as regularly updating your software and being cautious with downloads, you can help keep your computer secure and free from unwanted programs. Remember, vigilance and the use of reputable security software are key to protecting your digital environment.

Aliases

14 security vendors flagged this file as malicious.

Antivirus Vendor Detection
Symantec Adware.WhenUSearchBar
Sunbelt WhenU.WeatherCast
Sophos WhenU
Prevx1 Generic.Malware
Microsoft Adware:Win32/WhenU.WhenUSearch
McAfee potentially unwanted program Adware-SaveNow
Kaspersky not-a-virus:AdWare.Win32.SaveNow.as
Ikarus not-a-virus:AdWare.Win32.SaveNow.ap
Fortinet Adware/SaveNow
F-Prot W32/SaveNow.A.gen!Eldorado
CAT-QuickHeal AdWare.SaveNow.as (Not a Virus)
BitDefender Application.Whenusearch.A
AVG Adware Generic.EBB
AntiVir ADSPY/SaveNow.AS.1

SpyHunter Detects & Remove Adware.WhenU.WhenUSearch

File System Details

Adware.WhenU.WhenUSearch may create the following file(s):
# File Name MD5 Detections
1. Search.exe 06c71b7ab449039c4ad8f246a1bd54a3 0