Remove PUP.Optional.OpenCandy

PUP.Optional.OpenCandy is a unique name used by Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and other security tool to identify programs or codes that is related to OpenCandy adware. There are multiple components of the adware that can be installed on the browser without user’s permission. Modules such as add-on, extension, plug-in, registry entries, files, and any kind that tries to endorse OpenCandy we be identified as PUP.Optional.OpenCandy.

Entities detected as PUP.Optional.OpenCandy does not denote any malware or virus infection. It is considered as potentially unwanted program that may get stuck on the computer and removal seems to be complicated. Security risk like this one are normally bundled with freeware and shareware that you can download from various file-hosting web sites.

Why PUP?

PUP is the term used to claim a program that not so many computer users want or need. It is Potentially Unwanted Program. In short, it will get into the computer even without your request; even you do not want its presence. In particular, PUP.Optional.OpenCandy is a module of any programs from OpenCandy like add-on, extension, toolbar and search hijacker that overrides Internet browser without getting approval from you.

Why Optional?

Optional was used in this detection due to some instances that user may opt-out in the installation of OpenCandy modules. When PUP.Optional.OpenCandy comes bundled with shareware, there is a portion in the installation process where in OpenCandy will be installed by default. All you have to do is remove the check mark to exclude this adware from the install process.

About OpenCandy

OpenCandy is a web service that helps software makers earn money and keep their programs free-of-charge for the computer users. Developers earn money by recommending other select, free apps during the download and install process of their free apps. OpenCandy guarantee that all app recommendations are optional and you may choose to accept, decline, or uninstall any app at any time. As it takes an enormous amount of time, effort and investment to create apps, OpenCandy are focused on helping these developers keep their apps free while maintaining the highest quality user experience.

PUPOptionalOpenCandy

How to Remove PUP.Optional.OpenCandy

Stage 1: Scan the Computer with ESET Rogue Application Remover (ERAR)

1. Download the free scanner called ESET Rogue Application Remover.
Download Link for ERAR (this will open a new window)

2. Choose appropriate version for your Windows System. Save the file to a convenient location, preferably on Desktop.

3. After downloading the file, Windows will prompt that download has completed. Click Run to start the program. Another option is to browse the location folder and double click on the file ERARemover_.exe.

errar1

4. On ESET Rogue Application Remover SOFTWARE LICENSE TERMS, click Accept to continue.

5. The tool will start scanning the computer. It will prompt when it finds PUP.Optional.OpenCandy and other malicious entities. Follow the prompt to proceed with the removal.

ERAR

Stage 2: Double-check for PUP.Optional.OpenCandy’ leftover with Microsoft’s Malicious Software Removal Tool

1. Download the free scanner called Malicious Software Removal Tool.
Malicious Software Removal Tool Download Link (this will open a new window)

download-msrt

2. The tool automatically checks the operating system and suggest appropriate download version. Click on Download button to begin. Save the file to a convenient location, preferably on Desktop.

3. After downloading the file, Windows will prompt that download has completed. Click Run to start scanning for PUP.Optional.OpenCandy. Another option is to browse the location folder and double click on the file to run.

msrt-icon

4. The tool will display Welcome screen, click Next. Please note the message “This tool is not a replacement for an antivirus product.” You must understand that this program is made specifically to find and remove malware, viruses, Trojans, and other harmful elements on the computer. It was not designed to protect the computer.

msrt1

5. Next, you will see Scan Type. Please choose Full Scan to ensure that all PUP.Optional.OpenCandy entities and other harmful files left on the computer will be found and removed. For advanced computer user, you can opt for Customized Scan, if there are other drives or folders you wanted to include in this scan.

msrt2

6. Full scan may take a while, please wait for Malicious Software Removal Tool to complete the tasks. However, you may cancel the scan anytime by clicking on the Cancel button.

msrt3

7. After scanning, the tool will reveal all identified threats. There may be other threats that our first scan fails to detect. Please remove/delete all detected items.

8. When removal procedure is complete, you may now close Malicious Software Removal Tool. We hope that PUP.Optional.OpenCandy have been completely deleted from the computer. Please restart Windows to proceed with the normal operation.

About the author

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *