Microsoft’s Windows Defender antivirus software identifies, perhaps, CCleaner, a tool to remove unwanted files, as a “potentially unwanted application”.
Alerts occur when Windows Defender scans certain installation systems for loose, 14-day trial versions of CCleaner. The same installers can organize third-party software from the parent company of CCleaner, the Avast antivirus provider.
But according to Microsoft, those other programs are not required to install and run the unwanted log removal program. “While the packaged programs themselves are legitimate, the software package, especially third-party products, can generate unforeseen software activity that can have a negative effect on the user experience,” Redmond says in its review.
Other applications that CCleaner would possibly verify to install come with Avast Free Antivirus, AVG AntiVirus, which also owns Avast, as well as Google Chrome and Google Toolbar. (Avast receives a payment from Google for Chrome browser distribution).
“While CCleaner installers offer a deactivation option, some users may inadvertently install the included applications,” Microsoft says in the notice.
The company also provided screenshots that illustrate how so-called bundling works. When installing, CCleaner uses an add-on to touch Avast.com and download an additional registry called Microstub.exe. “When launched, it provides a pre-selected option to install Avast Free Antivirus,” says Microsoft.
“If users choose to continue, the provided antivirus product is installed in the background. Existing antivirus software, adding Microsoft Defender Antivirus, can be disabled or uninstalled in this process,” the corporation added.
However, Avast says the package description to be offered through Microsoft is inaccurate. Users are encouraged to simply install antivirus products or choose not to, but not automatically.
“Apart from Chrome, a rejection acceptance is controlled,” Avast said, noting that screenshots provided through Microsoft are outdated. We contacted Microsoft for feedback on discrepancies.
Being classified as a potentially unwanted application (PUA) does not mean that CCleaner is a malware. However, the Windows Defender indicator is not yet a smart look at the app cleanup app and would possibly invite some users to remove the product from their computers.
In response, a CCleaner spokesperson said, “Our products and products from our partners are authentic and therefore we are in talks with Microsoft about this factor as soon as possible.”
We downloaded CCleaner today and discovered that the installation program did not come with other programs in the installation process.
Editor’s Note: This story has been updated with the Avast commentary.
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