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Traful Stakelbeck
While investigating websites offering fake "cracked" software, our researchers discovered an installer containing the Metatogger Music Collection PUA (Potentially Unwanted Application). This installation setup was bundled with other untrustworthy and possibly malicious software. PUAs typically have undesirable and harmful capabilities.
PUAs usually have data-tracking functionalities. Commonly targeted information includes: browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, account log-in credentials (usernames/passwords), personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and so on. The collected data can be monetized via sale to third-parties (potentially, cyber criminals).
Unwanted apps may have adware capabilities. This software can place third-party graphical content (e.g., pop-ups, overlays, banners, etc.) on various interfaces. These ads endorse deceptive and malicious content (including malware). Some can be triggered (by being clicked) to execute scripts that perform stealthy downloads/installations.
We downloaded an installer containing Metatogger Music Collection from a scam webpage endorsing fraudulent software "cracks". Aside from sites using various lures or scare tactics, PUAs are distributed through "official" promotional pages.
Most visitors access these webpages via redirects caused by websites employing rogue advertising networks, intrusive ads, spam browser notifications, mistyped URLs, and installed adware. SEO poisoning techniques and malvertising are used to promote such pages as well.
PUAs can also be bundled with (packed alongside) regular programs. Some of these installation setups, as is the case with the Metatogger Music Collection installer, contain multiple unwanted/malicious additions.
We highly recommend researching software and downloading it only from official/verified sources. Additionally, all programs must be activated and updated using legitimate functions/tools, as illegal activation tools ("cracks") and third-party updates can include harmful software.
When installing, it is essential to read terms, explore available options, use the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opt out of all supplementary applications, extensions, tools, features, and so forth.
In case of continuous encounters with such adverts/redirects, check the system and immediately remove all suspect apps and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with PUAs, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate them.
Right-click on the Start icon, select Apps and Features. In the opened window search for the application you want to uninstall, after locating it, click on the three vertical dots and select Uninstall.
After uninstalling the potentially unwanted application, scan your computer for any remaining unwanted components or possible malware infections. To scan your computer, use recommended malware removal software.
At time of research, Metatogger Music Collection did not install any unwanted browser extensions itself, however, its installer was bundled with unwanted applications (e.g., adware, browser hijackers., etc.). If you experience unwanted ads or redirects when browsing the Internet, continue with the removal guide below.
Click the Edge menu icon (at the upper-right corner of Microsoft Edge), select "Extensions". Locate all recently-installed suspicious browser add-ons and click "Remove" below their names.
If you continue to have problems with removal of the metatogger music collection" potentially unwanted application, reset your Microsoft Edge browser settings. Click the Edge menu icon (at the top right corner of Microsoft Edge) and select Settings.
Select Restore settings to their default values. In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Microsoft Edge settings to default by clicking the Reset button.
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I am passionate about computer security and technology. I have an experience of over 10 years working in various companies related to computer technical issue solving and Internet security. I have been working as an author and editor for pcrisk.com since 2010. Follow me on Twitter and LinkedIn to stay informed about the latest online security threats. Contact Tomas Meskauskas.
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