Win32:PUP-gen

There are various classifications for malware. Among these is the idea of 'Potentially Unwanted Programs' which are usually represented with the acronym PUP. While Win32:PUP-gen technically belongs to this category of malware, ESG security researchers consider Win32:PUP-gen a dangerous malware infection which has the capability to infect multiple computers in a way that is more characteristic of worm infections. This is not to say that Win32:PUP-gen has worm-like components. Rather, this is a very common infection that can typically be found in Torrent networks spreading from one user to another within file sharing communities very quickly. Typically, Win32:PUP-gen will be found in pirated software downloads and 'cracked' games. It will also often be installed along with other 'free' applications such as media players and audio converters.

Protecting Yourself from Malware Such as Win32:PUP-gen

While most legitimate anti-malware programs are available to detect and remove a Win32:PUP-gen infection, the best protection against malware is to learn basic online safety guidelines. This is especially true of Trojan infections and of Potentially Unwanted Programs like Win32:PUP-gen that use a social engineering approach in order to attack their victims. 'Social Engineering' refers to the practice of taking advantage of human behavior in order to trick victims into downloading and installing malware. This is usually done by lying or disguising the malware infection as something else, usually a desirable or popular application or document. ESG security researchers recommend guidelines below to prevent infections like Win32:PUP-gen from entering your computer system.

• Always use a legitimate, real-time malware scanner. It is very important to be certain that all of your security software is always fully-updated. Not doing this defeats the purpose of these kinds of applications.
• Win32:PUP-gen infections in particular can be prevented by avoiding websites containing illegal content such as pirated software, illegally-copied media and other similar material.
• Win32:PUP-gen is also commonly included among files for applications of suspicious origin (often media utilities such as MP3 splitters). To prevent becoming infected, ESG security researchers strongly recommend researching thoroughly any application that you plan on installing on your computer system. If you find that a particular freeware application requires you to download files containing Win32:PUP-gen, ESG security researchers recommend searching for alternatives. There will often be multiple choices that will not involve installing malware on your system.