PDFast PUA

PDFast is a deceptive application marketed as a free file converter, claiming to transform Microsoft Office files into PDFs. However, beneath its seemingly benign functionality lies a potentially unwanted application (PUA) that poses significant risks to your system’s security. PDFast has been observed distributing malware, including trojans and ransomware, through malicious scripts embedded in its update mechanism.

Threat Overview

PDFast operates under the guise of a legitimate file conversion tool but functions as a PUA. Its installer and update executable (upd.exe) have been found to execute malicious PowerShell scripts that download malware from remote servers, particularly those hosted in China. These scripts can lead to severe system infections, compromising user privacy and security.

Threat Summary Table

Attribute	Details
Threat Type	Potentially Unwanted Application (PUA), Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP)
Associated Domain	pdf-fast[.]com
Detection Names	– Avast: Win32:MalwareX-gen [Misc], FileRepMalware – Fortinet: PossibleThreat, Adware/BrowserAssistant_AGen – GData: Win32.Trojan.Agent.15RDKA – Ikarus: PUA.Agent, Trojan.Win32.Kepavll – Malwarebytes: PUP.Optional.MediaArena – Microsoft: Trojan:Win32/Kepavll!rfn
Symptoms of Infection	– Presence of upd.exe process – Slow computer performance – Unexpected system behavior – Potential unauthorized access to personal data
Damage	– System infections – Privacy breaches – Financial losses – Identity theft
Distribution Methods	– Deceptive pop-up ads – Bundled with free software installers
Danger Level	High
Removal Tool	SpyHunter

Detailed Threat Evaluation

How Did I Get Infected?

Users often encounter PDFast through deceptive pop-up advertisements or by downloading bundled software from unofficial sources. The application masquerades as a legitimate file converter, enticing users to install it without realizing the hidden dangers.

What Does It Do?

Once installed, PDFast’s update executable (upd.exe) executes malicious PowerShell scripts that download additional malware from remote servers. These scripts can introduce various threats, including trojans, ransomware, and cryptominers, leading to severe system compromise.

Should You Be Worried for Your System?

Absolutely. The presence of PDFast on your system indicates a high risk of malware infection, which can result in data breaches, financial loss, and identity theft. Immediate action is required to remove the application and any associated malware.

Complete Guide to Removing Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs)

Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) infiltrate devices through software bundling and can cause slow performance, intrusive ads, and security risks. This guide provides manual removal instructions for Windows and Mac users, along with an automated method using SpyHunter.

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Manual Removal Guide for Windows & Mac

If you suspect a PUP is installed on your system, follow these steps to remove it manually.

Step 1: Uninstall Suspicious Programs

Windows Users

1. Open Control Panel:
   • Press Win + R, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.
2. Locate and Remove Unwanted Programs:
   • Look for unfamiliar or suspicious applications.
   • Right-click the program and select Uninstall.
3. Follow the Uninstallation Process:
   • If prompted, confirm by clicking Yes.

Mac Users

1. Open Finder → Click Applications.
2. Find and Remove Suspicious Apps:
   • Look for programs that you don’t remember installing.
3. Move to Trash:
   • Drag the unwanted application to Trash.
4. Empty the Trash:
   • Right-click the Trash icon and select Empty Trash.

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Step 2: Remove PUP-Related Browser Extensions

PUPs often install browser extensions that display ads or redirect search results.

Google Chrome

1. Open Chrome → Click the three-dot menu.
2. Go to More Tools → Extensions.
3. Find any suspicious extensions and click Remove.

Mozilla Firefox

1. Open Firefox → Click the Menu button (≡).
2. Select Add-ons and themes → Extensions.
3. Remove any unwanted extensions.

Microsoft Edge

1. Open Edge → Click the three-dot menu.
2. Select Extensions → Manage Extensions.
3. Locate and Remove any unknown extensions.

Safari (Mac)

1. Open Safari → Click Safari in the menu bar → Preferences.
2. Navigate to the Extensions tab.
3. Find and Uninstall any unfamiliar extensions.

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Step 3: Reset Browser Settings (If Necessary)

If PUPs have altered your browser settings, reset them.

Google Chrome

1. Open Chrome → Click three-dot menu → Settings.
2. Scroll down and select Reset settings.
3. Click Restore settings to their original defaults → Confirm.

Mozilla Firefox

1. Open Firefox → Click Menu (≡) → Help.
2. Select More Troubleshooting Information.
3. Click Refresh Firefox and confirm.

Microsoft Edge

1. Open Edge → Click Settings.
2. Select Reset settings → Restore settings to their default values.
3. Confirm the reset.

Safari (Mac)

1. Open Safari → Click Safari in the menu bar.
2. Select Clear History → Choose All History → Click Clear History.

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Step 4: Check for Leftover PUP Files

Even after uninstallation, some PUPs leave traces behind.

Windows

1. Press Win + R, type %temp%, and press Enter.
2. Delete all files in the Temp folder.
3. Repeat the process for:
   • %appdata%
   • %localappdata%
   • C:\ProgramData

Mac

1. Open Finder → Click Go → Go to Folder.
2. Enter:javascriptCopyEdit~/Library/Application Support/
3. Look for and delete suspicious folders.

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Automatic PUP Removal Using SpyHunter

For a faster, more thorough, and easier solution, use SpyHunter, an advanced anti-malware tool.

Step 1: Download and Install SpyHunter

1. Go to the official SpyHunter download page:
   • Download SpyHunter
2. Click the Download button and follow the installation instructions.

Step 2: Scan Your System

1. Launch SpyHunter.
2. Click Start Scan Now to initiate a full system scan.
3. Wait for SpyHunter to detect any PUPs and malware.

Step 3: Remove Detected Threats

1. Click Fix Threats to remove all detected PUPs.
2. Restart your computer to complete the cleanup.

For detailed SpyHunter download and installation steps, refer to: SpyHunter Installation Guide

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Final Recommendations

• Avoid Software Bundles: Always choose custom installation when installing free software.
• Use an Anti-Malware Tool: SpyHunter ensures your system stays protected from PUPs.
• Regularly Check Installed Programs & Browser Extensions: Be proactive in removing suspicious apps.

By following this guide, you can effectively remove and prevent Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs). If you want a quick and effortless solution, use SpyHunter to scan and remove threats.

Download SpyHunter for PUP Removal: SpyHunter Official Download

Conclusion

PDFast is a dangerous PUA that disguises itself as a harmless file converter. Its malicious activities can lead to significant harm, including system infections and personal data compromise. Users are strongly advised to avoid downloading software from unverified sources and to use reputable security tools to scan and remove such threats.