PUA.Win32.DriverUpdater.AM

January 22, 2020
 PLATFORM:

Windows

 OVERALL RISK RATING:
 REPORTED INFECTION:
 SYSTEM IMPACT RATING:
 INFORMATION EXPOSURE:

  • Threat Type: Potentially Unwanted Application

  • Destructiveness: No

  • Encrypted:

  • In the wild: Yes

  OVERVIEW

This Potentially Unwanted Application arrives on a system as a file dropped by other malware or as a file downloaded unknowingly by users when visiting malicious sites.

  TECHNICAL DETAILS

File Size:

2,338,416 bytes

File Type:

EXE

Memory Resident:

Yes

Initial Samples Received Date:

22 Jan 2020

Arrival Details

This Potentially Unwanted Application arrives on a system as a file dropped by other malware or as a file downloaded unknowingly by users when visiting malicious sites.

Installation

This Potentially Unwanted Application adds the following processes:

  • "%User Temp%\is-UTKTV.tmp\10033863f6a3a984e467c73213bd979bcf168bf5.tmp" /SL5="$3015E,1825371,139264,{malware file path and name}"
  • taskkill.exe /f /im DriverUpdaterM.exe
  • "schtasks" /Create /F /SC HOURLY /MO 3 /TN "dupVersionUpdate" /RL HIGHEST /TR "\"%Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\DriverUpdaterM.exe\" /checkupdates
  • "powershell" -Command "Set-ScheduledTask -TaskName 'dupVersionUpdate' -Trigger (New-JobTrigger -AtLogon -RandomDelay 00:10:00),(New-JobTrigger -Once -RepetitionInterval 03:00:00 -RepeatIndefinitely -At (Get-Date))"
  • "schtasks" /Run /TN "dupVersionUpdate"
  • http://www.{BLOCKED}updater.software/install/00000000/
  • "%Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\DriverUpdaterM.exe" /as /waitpar
  • "%User Temp%\is-N9I5I.tmp\PCCleanerInst_00000000.exe" /VERYSILENT /DENYINSP /INSTOFFERRUN
  • "%Program Files%\Internet Explorer\IEXPLORE.EXE" SCODEF:2324 CREDAT:275457 /prefetch:2
  • "%User Temp%\is-5KF0L.tmp\PCCleanerInst_00000000.tmp" /SL5="$50206,3142640,139264,%User Temp%\is-N9I5I.tmp\PCCleanerInst_00000000.exe" /VERYSILENT /DENYINSP /INSTOFFERRUN
  • taskkill.exe /f /im PCCleanerM.exe
  • "schtasks" /Create /F /SC HOURLY /MO 3 /TN "skpVersionUpdate" /RL HIGHEST /TR "\"%Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\PCCleanerM.exe\" /checkupdates
  • "powershell" -Command "Set-ScheduledTask -TaskName 'skpVersionUpdate' -Trigger (New-JobTrigger -AtLogon -RandomDelay 00:10:00),(New-JobTrigger -Once -RepetitionInterval 03:00:00 -RepeatIndefinitely -At (Get-Date))"
  • "%Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\PCCleanerM.exe" /ot /ofr /as /waitpar

It creates the following folders:

  • %User Temp%\dup
  • %AppDataLocal%\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Recovery\High\Active
  • %User Temp%\is-EH2GG.tmp\_isetup
  • %User Temp%\skp
  • %Program Files%\Monterix
  • %Application Data%\Microsoft\Windows\IECompatUACache
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater
  • %Application Data%\Microsoft\Windows\IECompatCache
  • %Application Data%\Microsoft\Windows\DNTException
  • %Application Data%\Microsoft\Windows\PrivacIE
  • %User Temp%\is-N9I5I.tmp\_isetup
  • %Application Data%\skp

(Note: %User Temp% is the current user's Temp folder, which is usually C:\Documents and Settings\{user name}\Local Settings\Temp on Windows 2000(32-bit), XP, and Server 2003(32-bit), or C:\Users\{user name}\AppData\Local\Temp on Windows Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 2008(64-bit), 2012(64-bit) and 10(64-bit).. %AppDataLocal% is the Local Application Data folder, which is usually C:\Documents and Settings\{user name}\Local Settings\Application Data on Windows 2000(32-bit), XP, and Server 2003(32-bit), or C:\Users\{user name}\AppData\Local on Windows Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 2008(64-bit), 2012(64-bit) and 10(64-bit).. %Program Files% is the default Program Files folder, usually C:\Program Files in Windows 2000(32-bit), Server 2003(32-bit), XP, Vista(64-bit), 7, 8, 8.1, 2008(64-bit), 2012(64-bit) and 10(64-bit) , or C:\Program Files (x86) in Windows XP(64-bit), Vista(64-bit), 7(64-bit), 8(64-bit), 8.1(64-bit), 2008(64-bit), 2012(64-bit) and 10(64-bit).. %Application Data% is the current user's Application Data folder, which is usually C:\Documents and Settings\{user name}\Application Data on Windows 2000(32-bit), XP, and Server 2003(32-bit), or C:\Users\{user name}\AppData\Roaming on Windows Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 2008(64-bit), 2012(64-bit) and 10(64-bit).)

Other System Modifications

This Potentially Unwanted Application deletes the following files:

  • %System Root%\Users\Public\Desktop\PC Cleaner.url
  • %Start Menu%\Driver Updater.url
  • %System Root%\Users\Public\Desktop\Driver Updater.pif
  • %System Root%\Users\Public\Desktop\PC Cleaner.pif
  • %System Root%\Users\Public\Desktop\Driver Updater.url
  • %Start Menu%\PC Cleaner.pif
  • %Start Menu%\PC Cleaner.url
  • %Start Menu%\Driver Updater.pif

(Note: %System Root% is the Windows root folder, where it usually is C:\ on all Windows operating system versions.. %Start Menu% is the current user's Start Menu folder, which is usually C:\Windows\Start Menu or C:\Documents and Settings\{User name}\Start Menu on Windows 2000(32-bit), XP, and Server 2003(32-bit), or C:\Users\{user name}\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu on Windows Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 2008(64-bit), 2012(64-bit) and 10(64-bit).)

It adds the following registry entries:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\
RestartManager\Session0000
Owner = "d\x01\x00\x00\x8a\xb4\xa1\x9ca\xd5\x01"

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\
RestartManager\Session0000
SessionHash = "{random characters}"

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\
RestartManager\Session0000
Sequence = "1"

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\
RestartManager\Session0000
RegFiles0000 = "\x00"

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\
RestartManager\Session0000
RegFilesHash = "{random characters}"

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Monterix\
DriverUpdaterEx
Partner = "00000000"

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Monterix\
DriverUpdaterEx
AffSubId = ""

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
Inno Setup: Setup Version = "5.5.9 (u)"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
Inno Setup: App Path = "%Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
InstallLocation = "%Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
Inno Setup: Icon Group = "Monterix\Driver Updater"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
Inno Setup: User = "{username}"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
Inno Setup: Language = "english"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
DisplayName = "Driver Updater"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
DisplayIcon = "%Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\unins000.exe"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
UninstallString = "%Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\unins000.exe"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
QuietUninstallString = "%Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\unins000.exe /SILENT"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
DisplayVersion = "11.2.0.64"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
Publisher = "Monterix Software LLC"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
URLInfoAbout = "http://www.{BLOCKED}updater.software"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
HelpLink = "http://www.{BLOCKED}updater.software"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
URLUpdateInfo = "http://www.{BLOCKED}updater.software"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
NoModify = "1"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
NoRepair = "1"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
InstallDate = "20190902"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
MajorVersion = "11"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
MinorVersion = "2"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
VersionMajor = "11"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
VersionMinor = "2"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
EstimatedSize = "7328"

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\
RestartManager\Session0000
Owner = "\x8c\x03\x00\x00WDS\xb1\x9ca\xd5\x01"

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\
RestartManager\Session0000
SessionHash = "8G}\x8f2\xd6z\xba\xf5\xcedTU\xafU/\x04\xd4yTk\xe9\xe5\xce\x1a\xd14\xd9\x95S\x92"

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Monterix\
SystemKeeperEx
Partner = "00000000"

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Monterix\
SystemKeeperEx
AffSubId = ""

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
Inno Setup: Setup Version = "5.5.9 (u)"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
Inno Setup: App Path = "%Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
InstallLocation = "%Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
Inno Setup: Icon Group = "Monterix\PC Cleaner"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
Inno Setup: User = "{username}"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
Inno Setup: Language = "english"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
DisplayName = "PC Cleaner"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
DisplayIcon = "%Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\unins000.exe"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
UninstallString = "%Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\unins000.exe"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
QuietUninstallString = "%Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\unins000.exe /SILENT"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
DisplayVersion = "12.4.0.18"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
Publisher = "Monterix Software LLC"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
URLInfoAbout = "http://www.{BLOCKED}ner.software"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
HelpLink = "http://www.{BLOCKED}ner.software"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
URLUpdateInfo = "http://www.{BLOCKED}ner.software"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
NoModify = "1"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
NoRepair = "1"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
InstallDate = "20190902"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
MajorVersion = "12"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
MinorVersion = "4"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
VersionMajor = "12"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
VersionMinor = "4"

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\
Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\
Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
EstimatedSize = "10688"

It deletes the following registry keys:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\
RestartManager\Session0000\RegFilesHash

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\
RestartManager\Session0000\RegFiles0000

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\
RestartManager\Session0000\Sequence

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\
RestartManager\Session0000\SessionHash

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\
RestartManager\Session0000\Owner

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\
Windows\CurrentVersion\Ext\
Settings\{72853161-30C5-4D22-B7F9-0BBC1D38A37E}\NewInstallPromptCount

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\
Windows\CurrentVersion\Ext\
Settings\{72853161-30C5-4D22-B7F9-0BBC1D38A37E}\CompatBlockPromptCount

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\
Windows\CurrentVersion\Ext\
Settings\{761497BB-D6F0-462C-B6EB-D4DAF1D92D43}\NewInstallPromptCount

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\
Windows\CurrentVersion\Ext\
Settings\{761497BB-D6F0-462C-B6EB-D4DAF1D92D43}\CompatBlockPromptCount

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\
Windows\CurrentVersion\Ext\
Settings\{DBC80044-A445-435B-BC74-9C25C1C588A9}\NewInstallPromptCount

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\
Windows\CurrentVersion\Ext\
Settings\{DBC80044-A445-435B-BC74-9C25C1C588A9}\CompatBlockPromptCount

Dropping Routine

This Potentially Unwanted Application drops the following files:

  • %Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\unins000.dat
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\is-4MIQO.tmp
  • %AppDataLocal%\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Recovery\High\Active\RecoveryStore.{EB349DC8-CD8F-11E9-B7A0-005056BC5B9B}.dat
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\unins000.dat
  • %Start Menu%\Driver Updater.lnk
  • %Start Menu%\PC Cleaner.lnk
  • %User Temp%\is-EH2GG.tmp\offer_ico.bmp
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\is-2SJHU.tmp
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\unins000.msg
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\is-6KPL8.tmp
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\is-NJIVC.tmp
  • %User Temp%\is-N9I5I.tmp\offer_ico.bmp
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\unins000.msg
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\DriverUpdaterM.exe
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\aff.txt
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\PCCleanerM.exe
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\is-CAA4L.tmp
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\unins000.exe
  • %User Temp%\is-N9I5I.tmp\PCCleanerInst_00000000.exe
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\aff.txt
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\is-5QOBV.tmp
  • %System Root%\Users\Public\Desktop\Driver Updater.lnk
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\unins000.exe
  • %System Root%\Users\Public\Desktop\PC Cleaner.lnk

(Note: %Program Files% is the default Program Files folder, usually C:\Program Files in Windows 2000(32-bit), Server 2003(32-bit), XP, Vista(64-bit), 7, 8, 8.1, 2008(64-bit), 2012(64-bit) and 10(64-bit) , or C:\Program Files (x86) in Windows XP(64-bit), Vista(64-bit), 7(64-bit), 8(64-bit), 8.1(64-bit), 2008(64-bit), 2012(64-bit) and 10(64-bit).. %AppDataLocal% is the Local Application Data folder, which is usually C:\Documents and Settings\{user name}\Local Settings\Application Data on Windows 2000(32-bit), XP, and Server 2003(32-bit), or C:\Users\{user name}\AppData\Local on Windows Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 2008(64-bit), 2012(64-bit) and 10(64-bit).. %Start Menu% is the current user's Start Menu folder, which is usually C:\Windows\Start Menu or C:\Documents and Settings\{User name}\Start Menu on Windows 2000(32-bit), XP, and Server 2003(32-bit), or C:\Users\{user name}\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu on Windows Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 2008(64-bit), 2012(64-bit) and 10(64-bit).. %User Temp% is the current user's Temp folder, which is usually C:\Documents and Settings\{user name}\Local Settings\Temp on Windows 2000(32-bit), XP, and Server 2003(32-bit), or C:\Users\{user name}\AppData\Local\Temp on Windows Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 2008(64-bit), 2012(64-bit) and 10(64-bit).. %System Root% is the Windows root folder, where it usually is C:\ on all Windows operating system versions.)

Other Details

This Potentially Unwanted Application connects to the following possibly malicious URL:

  • http://dl.{BLOCKED}ner.software/distr/skp/00000000/PCCleanerInst_00000000.exe
  • http://{BLOCKED}s.com/rt/capi/getvers?{random characters}
  • http://go.{BLOCKED}oft.com
  • http://www.{BLOCKED}updater.software

This report is generated via an automated analysis system.

  SOLUTION

Minimum Scan Engine:

9.850

Step 1

Before doing any scans, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10 users must disable System Restore to allow full scanning of their computers.

Step 2

Identify and terminate files detected as PUA.Win32.DriverUpdater.AM

[ Learn More ]
  1. Windows Task Manager may not display all running processes. In this case, please use a third-party process viewer, preferably Process Explorer, to terminate the malware/grayware/spyware file. You may download the said tool here.
  2. If the detected file is displayed in either Windows Task Manager or Process Explorer but you cannot delete it, restart your computer in safe mode. To do this, refer to this link for the complete steps.
  3. If the detected file is not displayed in either Windows Task Manager or Process Explorer, continue doing the next steps.

Step 3

Delete this registry value

[ Learn More ]

Important: Editing the Windows Registry incorrectly can lead to irreversible system malfunction. Please do this step only if you know how or you can ask assistance from your system administrator. Else, check this Microsoft article first before modifying your computer's registry.

  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\RestartManager\Session0000
    • Owner = "d\x01\x00\x00\x8a\xb4\xa1\x9ca\xd5\x01"
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\RestartManager\Session0000
    • SessionHash = "{random characters}"
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\RestartManager\Session0000
    • Sequence = "1"
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\RestartManager\Session0000
    • RegFiles0000 = "\x00"
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\RestartManager\Session0000
    • RegFilesHash = "{random characters}"
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Monterix\DriverUpdaterEx
    • Partner = "00000000"
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Monterix\DriverUpdaterEx
    • AffSubId = ""
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • Inno Setup: Setup Version = "5.5.9 (u)"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • Inno Setup: App Path = "%Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • InstallLocation = "%Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • Inno Setup: Icon Group = "Monterix\Driver Updater"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • Inno Setup: User = "{username}"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • Inno Setup: Language = "english"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • DisplayName = "Driver Updater"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • DisplayIcon = "%Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\unins000.exe"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • UninstallString = "%Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\unins000.exe"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • QuietUninstallString = "%Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\unins000.exe /SILENT"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • DisplayVersion = "11.2.0.64"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • Publisher = "Monterix Software LLC"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • URLInfoAbout = "http://www.{BLOCKED}updater.software"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • HelpLink = "http://www.{BLOCKED}updater.software"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • URLUpdateInfo = "http://www.{BLOCKED}updater.software"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • NoModify = "1"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • NoRepair = "1"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • InstallDate = "20190902"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • MajorVersion = "11"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • MinorVersion = "2"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • VersionMajor = "11"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • VersionMinor = "2"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{2329B0B1-00B8-459B-9F68-66831E4FFF47}_is1
    • EstimatedSize = "7328"
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\RestartManager\Session0000
    • Owner = "\x8c\x03\x00\x00WDS\xb1\x9ca\xd5\x01"
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\RestartManager\Session0000
    • SessionHash = "8G}\x8f2\xd6z\xba\xf5\xcedTU\xafU/\x04\xd4yTk\xe9\xe5\xce\x1a\xd14\xd9\x95S\x92"
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Monterix\SystemKeeperEx
    • Partner = "00000000"
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Monterix\SystemKeeperEx
    • AffSubId = ""
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • Inno Setup: Setup Version = "5.5.9 (u)"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • Inno Setup: App Path = "%Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • InstallLocation = "%Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • Inno Setup: Icon Group = "Monterix\PC Cleaner"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • Inno Setup: User = "{username}"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • Inno Setup: Language = "english"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • DisplayName = "PC Cleaner"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • DisplayIcon = "%Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\unins000.exe"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • UninstallString = "%Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\unins000.exe"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • QuietUninstallString = "%Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\unins000.exe /SILENT"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • DisplayVersion = "12.4.0.18"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • Publisher = "Monterix Software LLC"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • URLInfoAbout = "http://www.{BLOCKED}ner.software"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • HelpLink = "http://www.{BLOCKED}ner.software"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • URLUpdateInfo = "http://www.{BLOCKED}ner.software"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • NoModify = "1"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • NoRepair = "1"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • InstallDate = "20190902"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • MajorVersion = "12"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • MinorVersion = "4"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • VersionMajor = "12"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • VersionMinor = "4"
  • In HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{1AE5D9FC-B286-4C02-B5DA-B14E26EFC9A6}_is1
    • EstimatedSize = "10688"

Step 4

Search and delete these components

[ Learn More ]
There may be some components that are hidden. Please make sure you check the Search Hidden Files and Folders checkbox in the "More advanced options" option to include all hidden files and folders in the search result.
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\unins000.dat
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\is-4MIQO.tmp
  • %AppDataLocal%\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Recovery\High\Active\RecoveryStore.{EB349DC8-CD8F-11E9-B7A0-005056BC5B9B}.dat
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\unins000.dat
  • %Start Menu%\Driver Updater.lnk
  • %Start Menu%\PC Cleaner.lnk
  • %User Temp%\is-EH2GG.tmp\offer_ico.bmp
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\is-2SJHU.tmp
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\unins000.msg
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\is-6KPL8.tmp
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\is-NJIVC.tmp
  • %User Temp%\is-N9I5I.tmp\offer_ico.bmp
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\unins000.msg
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\DriverUpdaterM.exe
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\aff.txt
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\PCCleanerM.exe
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\is-CAA4L.tmp
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\unins000.exe
  • %User Temp%\is-N9I5I.tmp\PCCleanerInst_00000000.exe
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\aff.txt
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater\is-5QOBV.tmp
  • %System Root%\Users\Public\Desktop\Driver Updater.lnk
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner\unins000.exe
  • %System Root%\Users\Public\Desktop\PC Cleaner.lnk

Step 5

Search and delete these folders

[ Learn More ]
Please make sure you check the Search Hidden Files and Folders checkbox in the More advanced options option to include all hidden folders in the search result.
  • %User Temp%\dup
  • %AppDataLocal%\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Recovery\High\Active
  • %User Temp%\is-EH2GG.tmp\_isetup
  • %User Temp%\skp
  • %Program Files%\Monterix
  • %Application Data%\Microsoft\Windows\IECompatUACache
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\PC Cleaner
  • %Program Files%\Monterix\Driver Updater
  • %Application Data%\Microsoft\Windows\IECompatCache
  • %Application Data%\Microsoft\Windows\DNTException
  • %Application Data%\Microsoft\Windows\PrivacIE
  • %User Temp%\is-N9I5I.tmp\_isetup
  • %Application Data%\skp

Step 6

Scan your computer with your Trend Micro product to delete files detected as PUA.Win32.DriverUpdater.AM. If the detected files have already been cleaned, deleted, or quarantined by your Trend Micro product, no further step is required. You may opt to simply delete the quarantined files. Please check the following Trend Micro Support pages for more information:

Step 7

Restore this file from backup only Microsoft-related files will be restored. If this malware/grayware also deleted files related to programs that are not from Microsoft, please reinstall those programs on you computer again.

  • %System Root%\Users\Public\Desktop\PC Cleaner.url
  • %Start Menu%\Driver Updater.url
  • %System Root%\Users\Public\Desktop\Driver Updater.pif
  • %System Root%\Users\Public\Desktop\PC Cleaner.pif
  • %System Root%\Users\Public\Desktop\Driver Updater.url
  • %Start Menu%\PC Cleaner.pif
  • %Start Menu%\PC Cleaner.url
  • %Start Menu%\Driver Updater.pif

Step 8

Restore these deleted registry keys/values from backup

*Note: Only Microsoft-related keys/values will be restored. If the malware/grayware also deleted registry keys/values related to programs that are not from Microsoft, please reinstall those programs on your computer.

  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\RestartManager\Session0000
    • RegFilesHash
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\RestartManager\Session0000
    • RegFiles0000
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\RestartManager\Session0000
    • Sequence
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\RestartManager\Session0000
    • SessionHash
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\RestartManager\Session0000
    • Owner
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Ext\Settings\{72853161-30C5-4D22-B7F9-0BBC1D38A37E}
    • NewInstallPromptCount
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Ext\Settings\{72853161-30C5-4D22-B7F9-0BBC1D38A37E}
    • CompatBlockPromptCount
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Ext\Settings\{761497BB-D6F0-462C-B6EB-D4DAF1D92D43}
    • NewInstallPromptCount
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Ext\Settings\{761497BB-D6F0-462C-B6EB-D4DAF1D92D43}
    • CompatBlockPromptCount
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Ext\Settings\{DBC80044-A445-435B-BC74-9C25C1C588A9}
    • NewInstallPromptCount
  • In HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Ext\Settings\{DBC80044-A445-435B-BC74-9C25C1C588A9}
    • CompatBlockPromptCount


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