'Cleaner Update' Scam
Cleaner Update is an Android application that is being classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program). Apps of this type often serve as online advertising platforms, displaying pop-up ads and screen-blocking advertisements on users' smartphones or tablets. Additionally, PUPs may also be able to modify the homepage and search engine of web browsers and gather browsing-related data, which may be sold to third-party entities for profit.
It is important to note that Cleaner Update is not malicious malware or a virus but rather a PUP and a browser hijacker. While it may not pose a significant threat to your device, it could undoubtedly cause disruptions to your web browsing activities by redirecting you to random sites and flooding your screen with unwanted advertisements.
'Cleaner Update' App May Deliver Fake or Lure Notifications to Users' Devices
It is generally not recommended to keep the 'Cleaner Update' app on your smartphone or tablet. This is because the app may begin to display dubious advertising or even scam notifications, cause redirects, and change important browser settings. For example, the pop-ups that appear on your screen may claim that a 'Cleaner Update for Samsung is recommended' to be installed on the device. The dubious alert could also claim that users have a limited time to install the supposed app. In reality, the delivered ads and alerts may not always be for legitimate software products or may lead users to click on misleading links.
Since there is no guarantee that every ad or pop-up is reliable, it is important to find a way to uninstall the Cleaner Update app from your Android device to avoid potential security or privacy risks. Although uninstalling a browser hijacker is typically not too difficult, it may require extra care to ensure that all traces of the app have been removed.
Users Should Exercise Caution When Dealing With Messages Generated By PUPs or Rogue Websites
Rogue notifications, clickbait messages, and lure messages delivered by browser hijackers and PUPs can pose several risks to users.
Firstly, they can be highly disruptive and annoying, interfering with the user's browsing experience and productivity. This can lead to frustration and a loss of trust in the affected browser or device.
Secondly, such notifications and messages can also be designed to trick users into taking actions that compromise their privacy and security. For example, a notification claiming that the user's computer is infected with a virus may prompt the user to download and install invasive apps disguised as security tools.
Thirdly, some rogue notifications and messages may lead to phishing attacks or identity theft. For instance, a pop-up message claiming to be from a legitimate financial institution may ask the user to enter their login credentials, credit card details, or other sensitive information, which can then be used by cybercriminals for fraudulent activities.
Finally, rogue notifications, clickbait messages, and lure messages delivered by browser hijackers and PUPs may also be utilized to spread fake news, propaganda, or other types of harmful content. This can have serious consequences for individuals and society at large, such as the spread of disinformation or the incitement of hate speech and violence.
