Bargain Buddy

By CagedTech in Browser Helper Object
Published:
Last updated:

Threat Scorecard

Threat Level: 30 % (Normal)
Infected Computers: 3,872
First Seen: July 24, 2009
Last Seen: April 12, 2026
OS(es) Affected: Windows

The detection of Bargain Buddy on your system indicates a potential threat to your computer's security and your personal data. This report aims to provide you with an understanding of what Bargain Buddy is, how it operates, the symptoms of infection, and most importantly, how to remove it from your system to prevent further damage.

What Is Bargain Buddy?

Bargain Buddy is identified as a Trojan-type threat. Trojans are malicious programs that disguise themselves as legitimate software to gain unauthorized access to a computer system. They can be used to spy on users, steal sensitive information, disrupt system operation, or provide a backdoor for other malware. The name Bargain Buddy suggests it may pose as a utility or application that promises benefits or discounts, aiming to trick users into installing it willingly.

How Bargain Buddy Operates

Trojan-type threats like Bargain Buddy typically operate by deceiving users into executing them. This can happen through various means, such as clicking on malicious links, opening infected email attachments, or downloading software from untrusted sources. Once installed, Bargain Buddy can perform a variety of malicious actions, including but not limited to, data theft, keylogging, and downloading additional malware. It may also attempt to hide its presence by disguising itself as a legitimate process or file, making it difficult for average users to detect.

Symptoms of Infection

The symptoms of a Bargain Buddy infection can vary widely depending on its specific design and purpose. Common indicators of a Trojan infection include unusual system behavior, such as slow performance, frequent crashes, or unfamiliar programs and icons. You might also notice increased network activity, as the malware communicates with its command and control servers or distributes stolen data. Sometimes, Trojans can operate silently, making them harder to detect without proper security software.

How to Remove Bargain Buddy

  1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking to limit the malware's ability to interfere with the removal process. This mode allows you to use the internet to download removal tools while minimizing system activity.
  2. Download and run a full scan with a reputable anti-malware tool, such as SpyHunter. Ensure the tool is updated to the latest version to increase the chances of detecting and removing Bargain Buddy.
  3. Uninstall suspicious programs that you do not recognize or that were installed around the time the malware was detected. Be cautious and only remove programs you are certain are not needed.
  4. Reset your web browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, to their default settings. This can help remove any malicious extensions or settings changes made by Bargain Buddy.
  5. Reboot your computer and perform another scan with your anti-malware tool to ensure that Bargain Buddy has been completely removed. Repeat the scan a few days later as a precautionary measure to confirm the system is clean.

Conclusion

The removal of Bargain Buddy from your system is crucial to protect your data and prevent further malicious activities. By following the steps outlined above and maintaining vigilance in your online activities, you can significantly reduce the risk of future infections. Remember, prevention is key, so always be cautious when downloading software, opening email attachments, or clicking on links from unknown sources. Keeping your operating system, software, and security tools up to date is also essential in protecting against the latest threats.

File System Details

Bargain Buddy may create the following file(s):
# File Name MD5 Detections
1. ACSTRAY.EXE 9f3d7c8d8d8f794c1115b3170926a0e0 2,862
2. adx.exe 812def7df63838ed0be0a2b6a3fbcdb0 0
3. adv.exe 56979b69b9ff449b792e53f7e956cecc 0
4. exdXX.exe 9b571f4eb622096d7989dff203b0bbe1 0
More files

Registry Details

Bargain Buddy may create the following registry entry or registry entries:
CLSID
{F4E04583-354E-4076-BE7D-ED6A80FD66DA}
File name without path
adp.exe
adv.exe
adx.exe
bargains.exe
bb.exe
bbchk.exe
cc_versn.dll
exul.exe
Run keys
Bargains

Analysis Report

General information

Family Name: Adware.BargainBuddy
Signature status: Root Not Trusted

Known Samples

MD5: fade0a28fbf5b8b2aece75a8642e8c23
SHA1: 8a708dfc009b0218259164d3c1261a3cb625adc6
SHA256: A9D8C76BAF2E7CD15D874C9C22E4636B95F8D1DF29E421D86C7879DA3F7EA2E6
File Size: 104.97 KB, 104968 bytes

Windows Portable Executable Attributes

  • File doesn't have "Rich" header
  • File doesn't have debug information
  • File doesn't have exports table
  • File doesn't have relocations information
  • File is 32-bit executable
  • File is either console or GUI application
  • File is GUI application (IMAGE_SUBSYSTEM_WINDOWS_GUI)
  • File is Native application (NOT .NET application)
  • File is not packed
  • IMAGE_FILE_DLL is not set inside PE header (Executable)
Show More
  • IMAGE_FILE_EXECUTABLE_IMAGE is set inside PE header (Executable Image)

File Icons

Digital Signatures

Signer Root Status
Outblaze Ltd. Thawte Premium Server CA Root Not Trusted

File Traits

  • x86

Files Modified

File Attributes
\device\namedpipe\gmdasllogger Generic Write,Read Attributes

Windows API Usage

Category API
Process Manipulation Evasion
  • ReadProcessMemory
Anti Debug
  • IsDebuggerPresent
User Data Access
  • GetUserObjectInformation
Keyboard Access
  • GetKeyState