PUP.Optional.WinBing

Short bio

PUP.Optional.WinBing is a generic detection for applications that may modify browser and system settings to direct search engine lookups through 3rd party search tools. PUP.Optional.WinBing may also change predefined search pages to use affiliate models which may direct search revenue to the software creator.

Symptoms

PUP.Optional.WinBing may run as a start-up entry and may be visible as running processes on compromised machines. Alternatively, the software may be configured in a manner which prevents visible processes and start-up entries. PUP.Optional.WinBing may alter browser settings and may prevent removal or changing of search providers.

Type and source of infection

PUP.Optional.WinBing may be distributed using various methods. This software may be packaged with free online software and distributed as a payload within a download manager, or could be disguised as a harmless program and distributed by email.

Protection

Malwarebytes detects and removes PUP.Optional.WinBing.

Remediation

Malwarebytes can detect and remove many PUP.Optional.WinBing infections without further user interaction.

1. Please download Malwarebytes to your desktop.
2. Double-click mb3-setup-consumer-{version}.exe and follow the prompts to install the program.
3. Then click Finish.
4. Once the program has fully updated, select Scan Now on the Dashboard. Or select the Threat Scan from the Scan menu.
5. If another update of the definitions is available, it will be implemented before the rest of the scanning procedure.
6. When the scan is complete, make sure that all Threats are selected, and click Remove Selected.
7. Restart your computer when prompted to do so.