Avast is ruining CCleaner -- malware, bundled software, popup ads... what's next?

Exclusive: First look at CCleaner’s Health Check feature
https://techdows.com/2019/10/exclusive-first-look-at-ccleaner-health-check-feature.html

 

Need "seeker" aka guinea pig. Avast have released CCleaner v5.63.7540 (15 Oct 2019)

- This release contains an important security update and some minor bug fixes and UI updates

You can read more here: https://forum.piriform.com/topic/55747-ccleaner-v5637540/

Please report if you see something nasty running in the background pushed from Avast Malware Group. Hence the need for guinea pig Thanks.

 

Why not just do cleanmgr /sagerun:50?

 

since there has not been a new version of CCleaner for nearly 4 months since 5.63, I am starting to uninstall and "clean out" the CCleaner app on most of my computers and will replace it with either recent versions of Bleach Bit or Wise Disk Cleaner

 

It's been that way for a long time, infrequent updates, fortunately there's an active independent project - ccenhancer - that still puts out frequent updates - the last on 2/6/2020 - with new objects to add to ccleaners application list:
https://singularlabs.com/software/ccenhancer/



The new objects injected by ccenhancer show up with an asterisk next to them. Whenever I install new software new items to clean show up in ccleaner - the thousands of items are only shown each as they are installed on that particular system.


All of those asterisked items are used by me and not available through ccleaner alone. It's been that way for many years now. You need both tools to get the latest updated support for new Windows versions and new software objects to be cleaned.

I've been using ccleaner a long time. When I used to compare cleaning tools last ccleaner + ccenhancer still came out on top - it found and cleaned a bunch of things even after running several cleaners ahead of it.

I've seen many cleaners come and go over many decades and as long as ccenhancer and ccleaner keep up the good work, I'll keep using them for many years to come.

And, yes, I know about the problems of the past and I also know why those things happened - it's happened to many good products and some make it past those points and others don't. I expect ccleaner to continue to persist due to the diligence of their core developers - no matter what outside influences cause - so far I've been able to count on them to keep ccleaner going.

If either goes away, I'll start looking for another long term tool, but for now I don't see a reason to do so, yet.

 

I used CCEnhancer and after using Trim Winapp2 ccleaner latest version doesn't detect Edge Chromium and gets reset every time. I have uninstalled CCleaner and switched to Bleachbit and Wise Disk Cleaner full time.

 

Need "seeker" aka guinea pig. Avast have released CCleaner v5.64.7613 (2 Mars 2020)

General
- This release contains an important security update and some minor bug fixes and UI updates

You can read more here: https://forum.piriform.com/topic/55747-ccleaner-v5637540/

Please report if you see something nasty running in the background pushed from Avast Malware Group. Hence the need for guinea pig Thanks.

 

let's see what the folks from this other forum have to say about CCleaner 5.64, hee hee

 

Whats a good alternative to CCLeaner? BleachBit doesn't look to easy on the eye for me.

 

https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/stop-using-ccleaner-windows/

 

Need "seeker" aka guinea pig. Avast have released CCleaner v5.65.7632 (24 Mars 2020)

In this version of CCleaner we have focused on adding new cleaning improvements and improving our new Health Check feature so it’s running smoothly for all of you.

Better Cleaning
- Added new areas in Internet Explorer’s LocalAppData
- Improved Internet Explorer cache cleaning

Smart Cleaning
- Browser Smart Cleaning now supports Edge Chromium

Health Check
- Health Check no longer shows a connection error incorrectly (thanks nukecad!)
- Improved wording around connection errors to avoid unnecessary confusion
- Fixed Health Check freezing in some cases when CCleaner is launched (thanks APMichael!)

Localization
- CCleaner is now translated into Bengali and Urdu
- Made improvements to various translations
- Fixed a bug where the Estonian language option was showing Slovenian

Bug Fixes & Minor Changes
- Fixed a bug where erroneous data was being added to the .ini file (thanks larryg1516!)

Please report if you see something nasty running in the background pushed from Avast Malware Group. Hence the need for guinea pig Thanks.

 

Need "seeker" aka guinea pig. Avast have released CCleaner v5.66.7705 (29 April 2020)

In this version of CCleaner we have added full cleaning support for the Brave and Vivaldi browsers!

Cleaning
- Brave browser can now be cleaned independently
- Vivaldi browser can now be cleaned independently

Health Check
- Fixed an issue where 'Cookies' was also deleting internet history and was incorrectly reporting large numbers of trackers
- Internet history is now deleted via the ‘History’ Privacy category, which also includes download history and recently typed URLs

Pro Trial
- Starting a CCleaner Professional trial now gives you a guided experience to its features

Please report if you see something nasty running in the background pushed from Avast Malware Group. Hence the need for guinea pig Thanks.

 

I tried to run it and got this:

 

Regarding False Positives... Better safe than sorry when we talk about Avast and CCLEANER. See Thread title... <Avast is ruining CCleaner -- malware, bundled software, popup ads...>

 

ESET has fixed the FP immediately, now it's fine. Mr. Marcos was on top of it but you have to reboot after the virus definition update so Live Grid won't catch it.

 

It’s nice they have CCLEANER on the radar

 

CCleaner 5.66.7716 Released = https://www.ccleaner.com/ccleaner/builds

Still has the slow startup bug though if you block it from connecting to the internet via the Firewall

Spoiler: Changelog

v5.66.7716 (01 May 2020)
In this version of CCleaner we have added full cleaning support for the Brave and Vivaldi browsers!
Please note we have patched the 5.66.7705 version to 5.66.7716 to fix a stability issue in the CCleaner Professional Trial flow.

Cleaning
- Brave browser can now be cleaned independently
- Vivaldi browser can now be cleaned independently

Health Check
- Fixed an issue where 'Cookies' was also deleting internet history and was incorrectly reporting large numbers of trackers
- Internet history is now deleted via the ‘History’ Privacy category, which also includes download history and recently typed URLs

Pro Trial
- Starting a CCleaner Professional trial now gives you a guided experience to its features

 

actually this sort of thing has happened before a few years ago

fwahaha

 

+rep

 

Stopped using CCleaner and switched to Wise disk cleaner + Bleachbit 4.0 for thorough Cleanup. It seems Chromium Edge has more telemetry logs for 5 mins usage than VS Code telemetry which I use daily for development. Haha..

 

The slow startup bug has also been reported on the Piriform Forum. Seems like they are doing this intentionally if you are blocking anything from them or their partner Avast!

Luckily I still have a copy of CCleaner v5.65.7632 Portable

Don't forget to unblock the ZIP file before extracting it! "Are you sure you want to run this file?" [Yes or No]

 

Tried this one?

PC cleaner and privacy tool Privazer 4.0 released
by Martin Brinkmann on May 04, 2020 in

The developers of the PC cleaner and privacy tool Privazer have released Privazer 4.0, a new major version of the program, recently.
I reviewed Privazer back in 2012 for the first time when it was released initially, and concluded that it felt like the big brother of the-then popular tool CCleaner.

Closing Words
Privazer 4.0 improves the program in several meaningful ways. New users need to spend some time initially going through the options, menus, and scan options while existing users will feel right at home again when they run the new version for the first time.

Users who are looking for an alternative to CCleaner may want to give this one a try.

 

Yes, tried it and it cleared all my cookies so I had to spend an hour re-logging into every site that I use! Never touching it again! There is nothing better than CCleaner I've tried them all. Period.

 

Do u even password manager, bro?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

the one built into G00gl3 but it's still a pain to relogin to 50+ sites. Leave my cookies alone

 

Try wise disk cleaner and it has same cookies rules as Avast CCleaner.
I usually clear out cookies since SSO and other login methods make use of your session id and its a privacy breach in the hands of wrong people. If you're using Face id then use Google Auto fill password manager otherwise look at Bitwarden or enPass or Lastpass.

 

Adding these 2 entries to your HOSTS file will fix the slow startup issue with the latest CCleaner:

Code:

0.0.0.0 ncc.avast.com
0.0.0.0 ncc.avast.com.edgesuite.net

 

This is the data that is sent from CCleaner (even the portable version) so make sure you block it from the Windows Firewall:

 

Need "seeker" aka guinea pig. Avast have released CCleaner v5.67.7763 (28 May 2020)

This version of CCleaner brings more cleaning to Firefox, improvements in the delivery of our Professional trial guided experience, and some stability fixes for Windows 7 users.

Cleaning
- Added optional cleaning of Firefox crash reports

General
- Fixed a potential crash when CCleaner Professional, Business or Tech Editions launch on Windows 7
- Fixes to the Professional trial to improve the delivery of its guided experience

Please report if you see something nasty running in the background pushed from Avast Malware Group. Hence the need for guinea pig Thanks.

 

I don't see any of them running on my PCs since I've uninstalled Avast CCleaner.
Also, I'm try HiBit uninstaller which has disk cleaning and optimizing things.

 

Add these entries to your HOSTS file to block CCleaner slow startup due to connectivity checking and also block Piriform/Avast Telemetry:

Code:

0.0.0.0 ncc.avast.com
0.0.0.0 ncc.avast.com.edgesuite.net
0.0.0.0 ipm-provider.ff.avast.com
0.0.0.0 shepherd.ff.avast.com
0.0.0.0 ip-info.ff.avast.com
0.0.0.0 analytics.ff.avast.com

FW limitation mentioned here.

This is the same reason why if you block the latest CCleaner from the Firewall rules only, then try to launch it, it will take a long time before it starts as it is still trying to establish a connection with Piriform and Avast to spy on you so the way around that is to add those entries into your HOSTS file.

 

guys, check out this comment from another forum

 

Need "seeker" aka guinea pig. Avast have released CCleaner v5.68.7820 (23 June 2020)

This version of CCleaner brings improved cleaning to Firefox and Chromium browsers.

Cleaning
- Fixed browser extensions not being shown in Firefox and Chrome
- Fixed cleaning of ‘Last Download Location’ in Chromium browsers

Health Check
- Users can now provide a comment with their rating

Software Updater
- Software Updater displays a message when offline and a ‘Try Again’ button

Please report if you see something nasty running in the background pushed from Avast Malware Group. Hence the need for guinea pig Thanks.

 

You still use it? I have started using Hibit Uninstaller, bleachbit and Wise disk cleaner.

 

CCleaner Portable 5.69.7865

Make sure you right click on the ZIP file, go to Properties, and ensure it doesn't say that it is blocked before extracting it.

Block CCleaner from Windows Firewall > Advanced Settings for both incoming and outgoing connections.

Also add these entries to your HOSTS file otherwise CCleaner launching will be delayed as it is trying to connect to the internet and spy on you

Spoiler: HOSTS File

# Copyright (c) 1993-2009 Microsoft Corp.
#
# This is a sample HOSTS file used by Microsoft TCP/IP for Windows.
#
# This file contains the mappings of IP addresses to host names. Each
# entry should be kept on an individual line. The IP address should
# be placed in the first column followed by the corresponding host name.
# The IP address and the host name should be separated by at least one
# space.
#
# Additionally, comments (such as these) may be inserted on individual
# lines or following the machine name denoted by a '#' symbol.
#
# For example:
#
# 102.54.94.97 rhino.acme.com # source server
# 38.25.63.10 x.acme.com # x client host

# localhost name resolution is handled within DNS itself.
# 0.0.0.0 localhost
# ::1 localhost

0.0.0.0 localhost

::1 localhost #[IPv6]
0.0.0.0 ncc.avast.com
0.0.0.0 ncc.avast.com.edgesuite.net
0.0.0.0 license.piriform.com
0.0.0.0 ipm-provider.ff.avast.com
0.0.0.0 shepherd.ff.avast.com
0.0.0.0 ip-info.ff.avast.com
0.0.0.0 analytics.ff.avast.com
0.0.0.0 tracking.opencandy.com.s3.amazonaws.com
0.0.0.0 media.opencandy.com
0.0.0.0 cdn.opencandy.com
0.0.0.0 tracking.opencandy.com
0.0.0.0 offer.alibaba.com
0.0.0.0 deloplen.com
0.0.0.0 api.opencandy.com
0.0.0.0 fixmypcfree.com
0.0.0.0 1-1ads.com
0.0.0.0 a.ads1.msn.com
0.0.0.0 a.ads2.msads.net
0.0.0.0 a.ads2.msn.com
0.0.0.0 ads.msn.com
0.0.0.0 ads1.msads.net
0.0.0.0 ads1.msn.com
0.0.0.0 b.ads1.msn.com
0.0.0.0 b.ads2.msads.net

Spoiler: Changelog

This version of CCleaner brings all-new cleaning for Opera GX browser and bug fixes.

Cleaning

• Added cleaning support for Opera GX gaming browser

General

• Minor UI improvements
• Fixed DetectOS from|to syntax functionality in WinApp2
• Fixed occasional missing information in the Licence Information screen

 

Microsoft now detects CCleaner as a Potentially Unwanted Application

https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/ne...leaner-as-a-potentially-unwanted-application/

PUA:Win32/CCleaner

 

FWWAAA-HAHA - MS's windows defender app detecting CCleaner as a PUA - priceless

 

"detects and removes this threat." Did it really get removed?

 

Blocked ain't the same as removed.

If Windows Defender has blocked CCleaner on your system and you know that it can be trusted, you can allow the app under Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Threat history.
https://www.windowslatest.com/2020/07/30/windows-defender-ccleaner-potentially-unwanted-app/

 

Thanks for that info Papusan, I was just going by the alert message in post 136 where it says "detects and removes this threat." Nothing about blocking.

 

another new problem for CCleaner:

CCleaner is wiping Firefox Extensions Settings
https://techdows.com/2020/08/fix-ccleaner-wiping-firefox-extensions-settings.html

Bug: CCleaner 5.69 deletes files from Firefox extensions
https://borncity.com/win/2020/08/03/bug-ccleaner-5-69-deletes-files-from-firefox-extensions/

CCleaner Can Cause More Trouble Besides the PUA Warning on Windows
https://news.softpedia.com/news/ccl...sides-the-pua-warning-on-windows-530709.shtml

 

Users of CCleaner v5.70 might like to check their privacy settings

https://community.ccleaner.com/topi...w-options-for-data-sharing-at-privacy-offers/

and of course the offers/usage data option was enabled by default

 

Disgusting!

Need "seeker" aka guinea pig. Avast have released CCleaner v5.70.7909 (06 Aug, 2020)

Important information for Firefox users

If you use Firefox with a Firefox account, we strongly recommend that you update CCleaner to version 5.70 before cleaning. This version of CCleaner fixes an issue that can cause extension settings to be lost in Firefox.

The update also includes performance improvements and improved support for Opera GX.

Important fix for Firefox users

-Fixed a bug where CCleaner could wipe extension settings in Firefox if using a Firefox account

Cleaning

-Added Smart Clean support for Opera GX
-CCleaner now differentiates between Opera and Opera GX processes
-Fixed a rare bug where Health Check would not close all selected browsers

General

-Fixed a performance issue where CCleaner could use more CPU than it needed
-DetectOS syntax correctly supports full Windows build numbers in WinApp2

Errata

Some unfinished improvements to the CCleaner Privacy Settings were included in this version in error. This will be reverted in a patch build and released when ready in a later version of CCleaner. Your existing privacy preferences have not been affected.

Please report if you see something nasty running in the background pushed from Avast Malware Group. Hence the need for guinea pig Thanks.

 

I recently (~2-3wk ago?) re-installed CCleaner from Google Playstore on my phone, for some long-overdue attention to my bloated storage.

Extremely disappointed with the experience, from the moment of download to daily usage (will probably uninstall again later today, thanks for the reminder ). I knew this day would arrive eventually, and it has been a long time coming, but I think CCleaner is finally at the point of unusability for me.

Imagine going from the era of preferring CCleaner Portable, on a PC, to discovering that current Android app for my mobile device is actually a giant turd! What a sad moment...

I'm absolutely disgusted with the current CCleaner app. Again, no surprise, but what a shame. Oh well, knew it would hit the point of truly unforgivable crap eventually.

 

Need "seeker" aka guinea pig. Avast have released CCleaner v5.71.7971 (14, Sept 2020)

The update includes cleaning improvements to Spotify and Firefox cleaning and all users can now opt out of offers for other products.

Cleaning

• Firefox internet cache cleaning now includes startup cache
• New! Added cleaning for Spotify to clean cached songs (but not your saved songs for offline use)

Privacy Settings

• All users can now opt out of offers for other products

Please report if you see something nasty running in the background pushed from Avast Malware Group. Hence the need for guinea pig Thanks.

 

yeah no need to create a firewall blocking rule and hosts file blocking anymore:

CCleaner 5.71 with new privacy opt-out for offers

 

why didn't avast think of adding those "opt-out" options to ccleaner sooner?
better late than never, i guess

 

Need "seeker" aka guinea pig. Avast have released CCleaner v5.72.7994 (24, Sept 2020)

This release brings many improvements to accessibility in CCleaner and also a cleaning fix in Firefox.

Cleaning

• Fixed Saved Passwords not being cleaned in Firefox v80

Accessibility

• Greatly improved support for NVDA and JAWS screen readers so that people with visual impairment who use assistive technology can navigate quickly and intuitively through the app
• Updated color contrast throughout the user interface to make text, icons, and buttons more readable for people with color vision deficiency
• Fixed certain message boxes not having focus when they appear

Please report if you see something nasty running in the background pushed from Avast Malware Group. Hence the need for guinea pig Thanks.

 

a new CCleaner (for guinea pigs, heehee) release recently came out - v5.73.8130

 

Remember the proper link to the Portable and released notes Noone want or should use the Exe.

Need "seeker" aka guinea pig. Avast have released CCleaner v5.73.8130 (26, Oct 2020)

This release brings a design update that makes it easier to see the status of your CCleaner Professional license in the app. We’ve also made it easier to renew your license and reactivate it.

License Management

• The status of a CCleaner license is now clearer in the UI
• Disabled or expired licenses can now be reactivated from the app

Accessibility

• Improved screen reader navigation on the Cookies, Registry & Users screens

Please report if you see something nasty running in the background pushed from Avast Malware Group. Hence the need for guinea pig Thanks.