Adware:W32/ClearSearch

Classification

Category :

Spyware

Type :

Adware

Summary

This program delivers advertising content to the user. It is usually annoying but harmless, unless it is combined with spyware or trackware.

Removal

Based on the settings of your F-Secure security product, it may block the file from running, move it to the quarantine where it cannot spread or cause harm, or ask you to select an action.

A False Positive is when a file is incorrectly detected as harmful, usually because its code or behavior resembles known harmful programs. A False Positive will usually be fixed in a subsequent database update without any action needed on your part. If you wish, you may also:

  • Check for the latest database updates

    First check if your F-Secure security program is using the latest updates, then try scanning the file again.

  • Submit a sample

    After checking, if you still believe the file is incorrectly detected, you can submit a sample of it for re-analysis.

    Note: If the file was moved to quarantine, you need to collect the file from quarantine before you can submit it.

  • Exclude a file from further scanning

    If you are certain that the file is safe and want to continue using it, you can exclude it from further scanning by the F-Secure security product.

    Note: You need administrative rights to change the settings.

Technical Details

Adware:W32/ClearSearch is an adware and browser hijacker program.

Installation

ClearSearch adware may be distributed bundled together with other software. It may be either manually or silently installed.

The program is installed to:

  • %programfiles%\[randomname]\[randomname].exe

ClearSearch will also create a registry launchpoint for itself.

Activity

While active, the adware will connect to the following remote sites to track the user's browsing activities:

  • https://sds.clrsch.com\[...]
  • https://status.clrsch.com\[...]

The program will then display pop-up advertisements based on the user's browsing behaviour.