CCleaner, one of the famous PC and Mobile Optimization Software which is developed by Piriform, is flagged as ‘Potentially Unwanted Software’ by Windows 10 Built-in Antivirus, Microsoft Defender.
What is PWA?
Potentially Unwanted Applications (PUA) are a type of applications that may lead to slow down of your computer, unintended advertising show, or at worst to install other unwanted software.
This typically means that extra apps are bundled, stealthily installing apps such as a browser add-on, which will not harm your PC but can prove annoying.
In 2017, Piriform was purchased by Avast, and hence bundling of Avast products and promotions has been a cause for concern among its users.
Why CCleaner Was Flagged as PWA?
Defender now detects CCleaner as a PUA in Windows 10, spotted by Bleeping Computer.
Microsoft’s Statement
“Certain installers for free and 14-day trial versions of CCleaner come with bundled applications, including applications that are not required by CCleaner or produced by the same publisher Piriform.
“While the bundled applications themselves are legitimate, bundling of software, especially products from other providers, can result in unexpected software activity that can negatively impact user experiences.”
Bundled Apps With CCleaner
Bundled apps include Google Chrome, Google Toolbar, and Avast Free Antivirus, AVG Antivirus Free (Avast also Owns AVG, July 2016).
Microsoft stated that the packaged programs are fine and, of course, not malicious at all, but this is the troublesome approach to deployment.
While the CCleaner installation process provides a means of choosing not to install these additional applications on your PC, the Company reports that “some users will install such bundled applications inadvertently.”
A CCleaner spokesperson told Tech Radar: “We are in the process of engaging with Microsoft to understand why CCleaner was recently detected as PUA. We surmise the issue appears to be around bundling, and we believe we have addressed this so that our product is now no longer flagged.”
The matter has been resolved, according to a statement just released by CCleaner.