CCleaner Malware Alert: What You Need to Know

If you're a CCleaner user, you may have recently received an update for the software, but did you know that it was infected with malware? Yes, you read that right! The free computer-optimization software from Piriform, which is now owned by Avast, has been compromised.

According to Avast CEO Vince Steckler and Consumer Business CTO and EVP Ondrej Vlcek, the malware affected roughly 3 percent of CCleaner users, which translates to around 2.27 million computers running the infected software. The affected versions include CCleaner v5 and CCleaner Cloud v1.07 for 32-bit Windows PCs.

So, how do you know if your computer is among those affected? If you're running a 32-bit version of Windows 10 (or any other 32-bit Windows operating system), there's a good chance that you have the compromised software installed on your device.

But don't panic just yet! Avast claims that they were able to disarm the malware before any harm was done. The company worked with US law enforcement to shut down the malicious server on September 15, which prevented any known damage from occurring.

So, what exactly does this malware do? It gathers information about your computer, including your IP address, computer name, a list of installed software, active software, and network adapters, and sends it to a third-party server. While your credit card numbers and social security number seem to be safe, it's still important to take steps to protect your digital identity.

If you use CCleaner, here are the key takeaways:

* Check if you're running 32-bit Windows: If you are, there's a chance that you have the affected software installed.

* Look for updates: Make sure you're running the latest version of CCleaner, as the malware has been removed from newer versions.

* Be cautious with downloads: Always exercise caution when downloading software or updates from unknown sources.

By taking these simple precautions, you can ensure that your computer remains safe and secure. Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry!

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