Remove SoftwareBundler:Win32/LinkPadBundle

SoftwareBundler:Win32/LinkPadBundle is a potentially unwanted application (PUA) flagged by Microsoft Defender due to its deceptive nature. While it might not immediately behave like a classic virus, this software bundler is known to cause considerable harm by silently packaging additional, often malicious, programs alongside legitimate-looking downloads. Its association with game cheats and cracked applications makes it especially concerning, as users seeking “free” tools may inadvertently compromise their systems.

SoftwareBundler:Win32/LinkPadBundle Threat Summary

Attribute	Details
Threat Name	SoftwareBundler:Win32/LinkPadBundle
Type	Possible Trojan / Malware Bundler
Detection Names	Microsoft: SoftwareBundler:Win32/LinkPadBundle
Symptoms of Infection	Unwanted software installations, system slowdowns, browser redirects
Damage Potential	High – includes spyware, adware, and possible data theft
Distribution Method	Cracked apps, Roblox cheats, freeware websites (e.g., getfilenow.com)
Common File Name	Roblox Evon Exploit V4 UWP_79989118.exe
File Location	C:\Users[Username]\Downloads
Danger Level	High
Known Emails	N/A
Associated Websites	getfilenow.com
Recommended Removal Tool	SpyHunter

What Is SoftwareBundler:Win32/LinkPadBundle?

This specific threat disguises itself within freeware, cheat tools, or cracked software, such as Roblox exploit kits. One of its notable samples, Roblox Evon Exploit V4, was found being distributed through getfilenow.com and was designed to lure in unsuspecting users—particularly gamers. Once installed, the bundler doesn’t just install the expected software; it also brings along hidden payloads such as adware, spyware, and browser hijackers.

Even more alarming, these bundled payloads can go beyond simple annoyances. They can alter browser settings, collect personal data, degrade system performance, and even act as a launchpad for more advanced malware like keyloggers and remote access trojans (RATs).

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Why SoftwareBundler:Win32/LinkPadBundle Is a Threat

At its core, LinkPadBundle operates by exploiting user trust. Its distribution through “free” tools and cheats exploits users’ desire for shortcuts, especially within gaming communities like Roblox. However, these tools often serve as the perfect smokescreen for bundling malware.

Victims may not notice anything wrong at first, but over time, the following problems can emerge:

• Adware Popups: Unwanted advertisements flood the screen, appearing in browsers or system notifications.
• Browser Hijacking: Your homepage or search engine may be changed without permission.
• Background Activity: System slows down due to hidden tasks and programs constantly running.
• Data Harvesting: Sensitive data, including passwords and browser history, may be collected and transmitted to remote servers.

These are not just annoyances—they can lead to privacy invasions, account compromise, and long-term system instability.

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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

While SoftwareBundler:Win32/LinkPadBundle may masquerade as a simple game cheat or utility installer, it represents a serious threat to your system’s health and your personal data. Its presence can open doors to a chain reaction of infections, making it imperative to identify and remove it swiftly. Tools like SpyHunter are highly recommended to ensure full detection and cleanup of the associated files and hidden processes.

Don’t be fooled by harmless-looking downloads—what starts as a cheat could end in a full-blown system breach.