Do you know what PCPrivacyProtect is?
If you have been introduced to a “Privacy Protect App” warning, it is most likely that PCPrivacyProtect has invaded your Windows operating system. This program is a rogue security tool that our research team classifies as a Trojan. This malicious piece of software is most likely to be downloaded onto your PC using unreliable software bundles that might contain other threats. Alternatively, it could be introduced to you via misleading pop-ups offering bogus security and malware removal services. It should come as no surprise that we recommend deleting PCPrivacyProtect from your operating system. If you cannot wait to get rid of this malicious infection, go ahead and follow the instructions below. If you have a few minutes to spare, read this report to learn more about this malicious piece of software.
When the malicious PCPrivacyProtect invades your system, it is represented using a malicious file named “PCPRIVACYPROTECT.EXE”. When our research team was testing this threat, it did not add a RUN key in the Windows Registry, due to which, the rogue would start working only if the file was launched manually. Obviously, if the user is tricked into believing that PCPrivacyProtect is a reliable security tool, they are likely to open it without any hesitation. Now, if the file is launched without your intervention, a RUN key might be added. Go to HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RUN in the Registry Editor (launch RUN by tapping Win+R and enter “regedit.exe” to open this utility), and check for a value linked to the Trojan. If it exists, delete it without any hesitation. The good news is that you can remove the Trojan itself by eliminating its executable. Unfortunately, not all users realize that the file is malicious and that the information represented via its interface is misleading.
Have you been introduced to a notification urging you to scan your operating system for “exposed personal information?” That is a notification that is meant to trick you into initiating a bogus system scan. The results cannot be trusted, but more gullible users might be tricked into thinking that their accounts (e.g., banking or social media) are at risk. Without a doubt, paying attention to security warnings is very important, but you have to be careful about the sources that these warnings come from. PCPrivacyProtect is not a trustworthy source because it was created by cyber criminals who want you to call them at +1888 222 4747. This bogus “Emergency Help” number is used to scam users. Since every situation is unique, it is hard to say what exactly the schemers behind this bogus helpline will try to achieve. Most likely, they will try to gain remote access to your operating system – which is extremely dangerous – or trick you into disclosing personal information, which could be used to impersonate you.
PCPrivacyProtect screenshot
Scroll down for full removal instructions
It is crucial that you remove PCPrivacyProtect as soon as possible. This malicious piece of software will not provide you with authentic information, and, instead, it will be used to misinform and scam you. As mentioned previously, deleting PCPrivacyProtect is not difficult because all one needs to do is get rid of the malicious .exe file. Note that it exists – or might exist – in three different locations. While manual removal is not complicated in this case, we recommend scanning your operating system to check if you have to delete other threats. If they are too complicated to deal with manually, and you will end up installing automatic anti-malware software, there is no point in erasing the Trojan yourself.
Delete PCPrivacyProtect
- Simultaneously tap Win+E to launch Explorer.
- Enter %USERPROFILE%\Downloads into the bar at the top to access the directory.
- Delete the file named PCPRIVACYPROTECT.EXE
- Enter %USERPROFILE%\Desktop into the bar at the top and then follow step 3.
- Enter %TEMP% into the bar at the top and then follow step 3.
- Empty Recycle Bin and then perform a full system scan using a trustworthy malware scanner.
In non-techie terms:
The malicious PCPrivacyProtect is here to feed you false information, and the purpose behind it is to make you call a bogus helpline number. If you are tricked into thinking that your virtual security is at risk, and you end up calling the number, schemers could make you let in more malicious threats, as well as disclose sensitive information. In case you have disclosed private information, make sure you protect it. For example, if you disclosed credit card information, you should call your bank to set up safeguards. Without a doubt, the main goal here is to remove PCPrivacyProtect. You should be able to erase this threat using the instructions above, but you might have to install anti-malware software instead. This is something that is recommended if multiple threats have invaded your PC, and if you want to keep your operating system guarded in the future.