Avast’s CCleaner distributing malware

What ever you do - don't panic!

Whatever you do – Don’t panic…

This is a shocking bit of news. The popular “CCleaner” application from Avast which is used by millions of people, may have been distributing malware via a backdoor.

Just as shocking is the fact that Avast didn’t notify users. (Avast is security software company and provider of anti-virus/anti-malware products).

An update has been released, however. You should install if it you have not.

Here’s information from another article on the subject:

Users of Avast-owned security application CCleaner for Windows have been advised to update their software immediately, after researchers discovered criminal hackers had installed a backdoor in the tool. The tainted application allows for download of further malware, be it ransomware or keyloggers, with fears millions are affected. According to Avast’s own figures, 2.27 million ran the affected software, though the company said users should not panic.Forbes Article

Many of Homeland Secure IT’s clients have used CCLeaner, and we have used it ourselves. Our customers who use our Managed Services platform should receive an automatic update and a notification that it was updated.

Should you have any questions or concerns about this, please call us at 864-990-4748 or use our CONTACT FORM.

Ask about AutoTask Endpoint Management / CentraStage – it can help us keep your computers and servers up to date – and Trend Micro’s Worry-Free Business Security products can keep your network safe from malware!

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