PUP.Wscanner

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Last updated:

Threat Scorecard

Threat Level: 10 % (Normal)
Infected Computers: 412
First Seen: March 6, 2016
Last Seen: February 27, 2024
OS(es) Affected: Windows

The detection of PUP.Wscanner on your system indicates the presence of a potentially unwanted program (PUP) that may compromise your computer's security and performance. It is essential to understand the nature of this threat and take prompt action to remove it to prevent potential harm.

What Is PUP.Wscanner?

PUP.Wscanner is classified as a potentially unwanted program, which means it is not necessarily malicious but can still cause issues with your system. PUPs are often bundled with other software or installed through deceptive means, and they can lead to a range of problems, including unwanted advertisements, system slowdowns, and data collection without your consent. While PUP.Wscanner may not be as harmful as other types of malware, it is crucial to remove it to maintain your system's integrity and protect your personal data.

How PUP.Wscanner Operates

PUPs like PUP.Wscanner typically operate by installing themselves on your system without your explicit consent. They may be bundled with free software or disguised as legitimate programs, making it difficult for users to detect them. Once installed, PUP.Wscanner can start collecting data, displaying unwanted advertisements, or altering your system settings. In some cases, PUPs can also download and install additional malicious software, increasing the risk to your system. Understanding how PUP.Wscanner operates is vital to removing it effectively and preventing future infections.

Symptoms of Infection

If your system is infected with PUP.Wscanner, you may notice several symptoms. These can include unwanted pop-ups or advertisements, system slowdowns, and changes to your browser settings or homepage. You may also notice unfamiliar programs or toolbars installed on your system. In some cases, PUP.Wscanner may also collect your personal data, such as browsing history or search queries, without your consent. Being aware of these symptoms can help you identify the infection and take prompt action to remove it.

  • Unwanted pop-ups or advertisements
  • System slowdowns or performance issues
  • Changes to browser settings or homepage
  • Unfamiliar programs or toolbars installed
  • Collection of personal data without consent

How to Remove PUP.Wscanner

  1. Boot your system in Safe Mode with Networking to prevent PUP.Wscanner from loading and to allow for a more effective removal process.
  2. Perform a full scan of your system using a reputable anti-malware tool, such as SpyHunter, to detect and remove PUP.Wscanner and any associated malware.
  3. Uninstall any suspicious programs or applications that may be related to PUP.Wscanner. Be cautious when uninstalling programs to avoid removing legitimate software.
  4. Reset your web browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, to their default settings to remove any changes made by PUP.Wscanner.
  5. Reboot your system and perform another scan to ensure that PUP.Wscanner has been completely removed.

Conclusion

Removing PUP.Wscanner from your system is crucial to maintaining your computer's security and performance. By understanding the nature of this threat and following the removal steps outlined above, you can effectively eliminate PUP.Wscanner and prevent future infections. Remember to always be cautious when installing software, and ensure you have a reputable anti-malware tool installed to protect your system from potential threats. Regularly scanning your system and keeping your software up to date can also help prevent infections and maintain your system's integrity.

SpyHunter Detects & Remove PUP.Wscanner

Registry Details

PUP.Wscanner may create the following registry entry or registry entries:
CLSID
{348F15C4-1D9D-4100-A85B-16F8542C8659}
{822B88F2-D7D8-473C-9C82-1A1EDB255268}
File name without path
wscanner.lnk
Regexp file mask
%WINDIR%\System32\Tasks\Wscanner Secure
%WINDIR%\System32\Tasks\Wscanner Updater
SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Schedule\TaskCache\Tree\Wscanner Secure
SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Schedule\TaskCache\Tree\Wscanner Updater
SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Browser Helper Objects\{822B88F2-D7D8-473C-9C82-1A1EDB255268}
SOFTWARE\Wscanner

Directories

PUP.Wscanner may create the following directory or directories:

%PROGRAMFILES%\Wscanner
%PROGRAMFILES(x86)%\Wscanner