PUABundler:Win32/PiriformBundler is the detection of an unwanted program, developed and issued by Piriform Software. While applications from this developer aren’t inherently malicious, the bundled software they carry and their questionable behavior make them less than desirable.
What is PUABundler:Win32/PiriformBundler?
PiriformBundler is a detection name for unwanted software developed by Piriform. Microsoft assigns such names to denote a group of malware or unwanted software with common traits. Other malware with similar naming conventions may share functionality or code solutions, while those labeled PiriformBundler share the same developer.
But why are they unwanted? Major cybersecurity vendors, along with Microsoft, classify software bundles as unwanted. Piriform used to monetize their free versions by adding other software to installations, meeting the criteria of bundled software.
Aside from that, Piriform software is not particularly effective. While it performs positive actions in the system, its overall effectiveness often falls short, bordering on a placebo effect.
Threat Summary
| Threat Name | PUABundler:Win32/PiriformBundler |
| Threat Type | Unwanted Program |
| Effects | Piriform program appears on your PC, possibly together with other unknown programs |
| Danger | Unwanted program installation, low efficiency of the actual software |
| Mitigation | Removal with GridinSoft Anti-Malware or just manual removal |
To have a more clear understanding of what the PUA:Win32/PiriformBundler is, let’s analyze one of the apps detected as PiriformBundler and see what exactly makes it so unpleasant.
PUABundler:Win32/PiriformBundler Analysis
Finding a sample for this analysis is straightforward – any program from the Piriform website will suffice. I chose Defraggler for this analysis, a disk defragmentation utility available in both free and paid versions.
Despite its appearance as a defragmentation tool, the program’s effectiveness is questionable. After two consecutive defrags, it reported about 9% defragmentation, revealing an objective lack of effectiveness.
Subsequent analysis demonstrates that the program, while identifying fragmented files, takes no action to address them. This lack of effectiveness raises concerns about its overall utility.
Is PiriformBundler Dangerous?
As indicated by the analysis, it is not as dangerous as malware. While not inherently harmful, Piriform software’s lack of effectiveness makes it less desirable. If you encounter it without consent, running a scan with GridinSoft Anti-Malware is recommended.
It is most likely safe to have such programs on your PC. But if you never installed them, or suspect that it appeared without your consent, then run a scan with GridinSoft Anti-Malware. This program will uncover malicious programs that may potentially be present in the system.
How to protect against PiriformBundler and unwanted programs?
It is not that easy to understand whether the program is legitimate or not. The notification from Microsoft Defender is mostly informational – as you can see, even being marked as PUA does not mean the program is dangerous to use. Though, some of such apps may be rather dangerous to run, due to their malignant nature or just poor design.
By using only reliable and well-reviewed sources, you can weed out the majority of unwanted programs. Forum advice, advertisement on a shady website – such places are not ideal for finding benign and effective software. When you expect it to solve your problems – well, take your time and see user testimonials. The Internet remembers everything, so it will not be possible to hide the truth if you’re persistent enough.
Have reliable anti-malware software running in the system. This will not only protect your system from malware intrusion but also help you understand whether the detected unwanted program is dangerous or not. Using GridinSoft Anti-Malware, you will also be protected from the newest threats and online fraud, thanks to its advanced scanning capabilities.
