PUP.Junk Cleaner

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Last updated:

Threat Scorecard

Threat Level: 10 % (Normal)
Infected Computers: 1,959
First Seen: April 28, 2015
Last Seen: June 25, 2026
OS(es) Affected: Windows

The detection of PUP.Junk Cleaner on your system indicates the presence of a potentially unwanted program (PUP) that may be causing issues with your computer's performance and security. It's essential to understand the nature of this threat and take appropriate steps to remove it to prevent potential harm.

What Is PUP.Junk Cleaner?

PUP.Junk Cleaner is a type of potentially unwanted program that is designed to appear as a useful tool for cleaning up junk files and improving system performance. However, its actual purpose may be to display unwanted advertisements, collect user data, or install additional malware. PUPs like PUP.Junk Cleaner often sneak onto systems through bundled software downloads or deceptive advertising, making them a common nuisance for many computer users.

How PUP.Junk Cleaner Operates

Once installed, PUP.Junk Cleaner may start scanning your system for junk files and registry errors, claiming to improve performance. However, its scans may be exaggerated or fake, and the program may not actually remove any real threats. Instead, it may install additional toolbars, extensions, or software that can compromise your system's security and slow down its performance. PUP.Junk Cleaner may also collect user data, such as browsing history and search queries, to display targeted advertisements or sell to third-party companies.

Symptoms of Infection

If your system is infected with PUP.Junk Cleaner, you may notice several symptoms, including unwanted pop-up advertisements, slow system performance, and suspicious programs or toolbars installed on your computer. You may also notice that your browser's homepage or search engine has been changed without your consent. Additionally, you may receive fake alerts or warnings claiming that your system is infected with malware, attempting to scare you into purchasing the full version of the program or additional software.

How to Remove PUP.Junk Cleaner

  1. Boot your computer in Safe Mode with Networking to prevent PUP.Junk Cleaner from loading and 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 components of the PUP.
  3. Uninstall any suspicious programs or software that you don't recognize or no longer need, as they may be related to the PUP.
  4. Reset your web browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, to their default settings to remove any unwanted extensions or toolbars.
  5. Reboot your computer and perform another full scan to ensure that all components of PUP.Junk Cleaner have been removed.

Conclusion

Removing PUP.Junk Cleaner from your system is crucial to preventing potential harm and improving your computer's performance. By following the steps outlined above, you can effectively remove this PUP and protect your system from similar threats in the future. It's essential to remain vigilant and cautious when downloading software or clicking on advertisements to avoid falling victim to PUPs and other types of malware. Regularly scanning your system with reputable anti-malware tools and keeping your operating system and software up to date can also help prevent infections and ensure your computer remains secure.

SpyHunter Detects & Remove PUP.Junk Cleaner

File System Details

PUP.Junk Cleaner may create the following file(s):
# File Name MD5 Detections
1. 2.1.0.1_JunkCleanersetup.exe acc3cc0284a5b267d34743127eb08ec8 24
2. 1.1.3.1_JunkCleanerInstall.exe e668d7c1cca82039f81cbfaafbb928d8 23
3. junkcleaner.exe 04e85f01cfdf4efc6fe3c23fb74ea706 1
4. file.exe 441438f11bba3e950e33dc6cdd7e0138 0
More files

Registry Details

PUP.Junk Cleaner may create the following registry entry or registry entries:
Regexp file mask
%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\All copyright reserved - 2014\All copyright reserved - 2014._Junk Cleaner.swidtag
%ALLUSERSPROFILE%\JunkCleaner.lnk
%APPDATA%\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Quick Launch\User Pinned\StartMenu\Junk Cleaner.lnk
Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run\JunkCleaner
SOFTWARE\Pandaje Group\Junk Cleaner
Software\Wow6432node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run\JunkCleaner
SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Pandaje Group\Junk Cleaner
SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Pandaje Technical Services\Junk Cleaner

Directories

PUP.Junk Cleaner may create the following directory or directories:

%PROGRAMFILES%\Pandaje Group\Junk Cleaner
%PROGRAMFILES(x86)%\Pandaje Group\Junk Cleaner
%PROGRAMFILES(x86)%\Pandaje Technical Services\Junk Cleaner