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How to remove the AcerPalmatum malicious browser extension

Also Known As: AcerPalmatum unwanted extension
Type: Adware
Damage level: Medium

What kind of software is AcerPalmatum?

After analyzing the AcerPalmatum extension, we determined that it is capable of managing/manipulating browsers. These abilities can be used for a variety of harmful activities. Additionally, this malicious browser extension has data-tracking functionalities.

Our research team found the AcerPalmatum extension in an installer hosted on a deceptive page during a routine investigation of dubious websites.

AcerPalmatum browser extension

AcerPalmatum overview

AcerPalmatum targets Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge browsers. This malicious software can manage browsers' apps, extensions, themes, and other content/settings. Hence, AcerPalmatum is capable of altering browsers' behavior and appearance. The manipulation can be varied, as can the potential threats. Additionally, this extension may exploit browsers' vulnerabilities – thus opening an avenue to further the infection.

AcerPalmatum utilizes the "Managed by your organization" Chrome and Edge browser feature to gain additional functionality and ensure persistence.

Another worrisome function of this extension is reading browsing histories and collecting browser data. Targeted information may include: URLs visited, webpages viewed, search queries typed, Internet cookies, account log-in credentials, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and so on. The gathered data can then be shared with and/or sold to third-parties (potentially, cyber criminals).

To summarize, the presence of software like AcerPalmatum on devices can result in system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.

Threat Summary:
Name AcerPalmatum unwanted extension
Threat Type Malicious Extension, Unwanted Extension
Browser Extension(s) AcerPalmatum
Detection Names (installer) Gridinsoft (no cloud) (PUP.Win32.Chromnius.dg!c), Full List Of Detections (VirusTotal)
Symptoms The "Managed by your organization" feature is activated in Chrome/Edge browser, decreased Internet browsing speed, your computer becomes slower than usual.
Distribution Methods Dubious websites, malicious installers, deceptive pop-up ads, free software installers (bundling), torrent file downloads.
Damage Decreased computer performance, browser tracking - privacy issues, possible additional malware infections.
Malware Removal (Windows)

To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your computer with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner.
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To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. 7 days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by Rcs Lt, the parent company of PCRisk.com read more.

Similar software examples

ZygorhizaKochii, PlatyhystrixRugosus, MacacaFascicularis, IchthyosaurusComunicus, and PythonRegius are just some examples of malicious extensions similar to AcerPalmatum.

Unwanted browser extensions are often presented as existing software or disguised as common legitimate-looking tools. Users can also be lured into downloading/installing the software by promises of various "handy" functionalities, which are rarely operational. Instead of working as advertised, these extensions can function as adware, browser hijackers, or have other harmful functions.

How did AcerPalmatum install on my computer?

We obtained an installation setup containing AcerPalmatum from a deceptive webpage. Most visitors to unwanted/malicious software endorsing pages enter them via redirects caused by websites using rogue advertising networks, mistyped URLs, intrusive ads, spam browser notifications, or installed adware.

Ordinary program installers can also be bundled with harmful additions. The danger of unintentionally allowing bundled content into the system is increased by downloading from untrustworthy sources (e.g., freeware and free file-hosting websites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.) and compounded by treating installations with negligence (e.g., ignoring terms, using "Easy/Express" settings, etc.).

Intrusive advertisements spread this software as well. Once clicked on, some of the adverts can execute scripts to perform stealthy downloads/installations.

How to avoid installation of unwanted software?

It is crucial to be cautious while browsing since fake and malicious online content usually appears legitimate and innocuous. For example, intrusive adverts may look harmless yet redirect to highly questionable sites (e.g., scam-promoting, gambling, pornography, adult dating, etc.).

Another recommendation is to research software and download it only from official/verified channels. Installation processes must be treated with care, e.g., by reading terms, studying available options, using the "Custom" or "Advanced" settings, and opting out of all supplementary apps, extensions, tools, features, and so forth.

If your computer is already infected with AcerPalmatum, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate this rogue software.

Screenshot of the website used to promote an installer containing AcerPalmatum:

Website promoting AcerPalmatum installer

Screenshot of AcerPalmatum extension's detailed information:

AcerPalmatum browser extension details

Screenshot of AcerPalmatum installed on Microsoft Edge:

AcerPalmatum browser extension installed on Edge

Instant automatic malware removal: Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced IT skills. Combo Cleaner is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of malware. Download it by clicking the button below:
▼ DOWNLOAD Combo Cleaner By downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. 7 days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by Rcs Lt, the parent company of PCRisk.com read more.

Quick menu:

Unwanted software removal:

Windows 11 users:

Accessing Apps and Features in Windows 11

Right-click on the Start icon, select Apps and Features. In the opened window search for the application you want to uninstall, after locating it, click on the three vertical dots and select Uninstall.

Windows 10 users:

Accessing Programs and Features (uninstall) in Windows 8

Right-click in the lower left corner of the screen, in the Quick Access Menu select Control Panel. In the opened window choose Programs and Features.

Windows 7 users:

Accessing Programs and Features (uninstall) in Windows 7

Click Start (Windows Logo at the bottom left corner of your desktop), choose Control Panel. Locate Programs and click Uninstall a program.

macOS (OSX) users:

Uninstall app in OSX (Mac)

Click Finder, in the opened screen select Applications. Drag the app from the Applications folder to the Trash (located in your Dock), then right click the Trash icon and select Empty Trash.

Unwanted app uninstall via Control Panel

In the uninstall programs window, look for any unwanted applications, select these entries and click "Uninstall" or "Remove".

After uninstalling the unwanted applications, scan your computer for any remaining unwanted components or possible malware infections. To scan your computer, use recommended malware removal software.

Remove rogue extensions from Internet browsers:

Video showing how to remove potentially unwanted browser add-ons:

Google Chrome logoRemove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:

Removing unwanted extensions from Google Chrome step 1

Click the Chrome menu icon Google Chrome menu icon (at the top right corner of Google Chrome), select "Extensions" and click "Manage Extensions". Locate "AcerPalmatum" and all other recently-installed suspicious extensions, select these entries and click "Remove".

Removing unwanted extensions from Google Chrome step 2

Optional method:

If you continue to have problems with removal of the acerpalmatum unwanted extension, reset your Google Chrome browser settings. Click the Chrome menu icon Google Chrome menu icon (at the top right corner of Google Chrome) and select Settings. Scroll down to the bottom of the screen. Click the Advanced… link.

Google Chrome settings reset step 1

After scrolling to the bottom of the screen, click the Reset (Restore settings to their original defaults) button.

Google Chrome settings reset step 2

In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Google Chrome settings to default by clicking the Reset button.

Google Chrome settings reset step 3

Mozilla Firefox logoRemove malicious plugins from Mozilla Firefox:

Removing unwanted extensions from Mozilla Firefox step 1

Click the Firefox menu firefox menu icon (at the top right corner of the main window), select "Add-ons and themes". Click "Extensions", in the opened window locate recently-installed suspicious extensions, click on the three dots and then click "Remove".

Removing unwanted extensions from Mozilla Firefox step 2

Optional method:

Computer users who have problems with acerpalmatum unwanted extension removal can reset their Mozilla Firefox settings.

Open Mozilla Firefox, at the top right corner of the main window, click the Firefox menu, firefox menu icon in the opened menu, click Help.

Accessing settings (Reset Firefox to default settings step 1)

Select Troubleshooting Information.

Accessing Troubleshooting Information (Reset Firefox to default settings step 2)

In the opened window, click the Refresh Firefox button.

Clicking on Refresh Firefox button (Reset Firefox to default settings step 3)

In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Mozilla Firefox settings to default by clicking the Refresh Firefox button.

Confirm your want to reset Firefox settings to default (Reset Firefox to default settings step 4)

safari browser logoRemove malicious extensions from Safari:

removing adware from safari step 1 - accessing preferences

Make sure your Safari browser is active, click Safari menu, and select Preferences....

removing adware from safari step 2 - removing extensions

In the opened window click Extensions, locate any recently installed suspicious extension, select it and click Uninstall.

Optional method:

Make sure your Safari browser is active and click on Safari menu. From the drop down menu select Clear History and Website Data...

resetting safari step 1

In the opened window select all history and click the Clear History button.

resetting safari step 2

Microsoft Edge (Chromium) logoRemove malicious extensions from Microsoft Edge:

Removing adware from Microsoft Edge step 1

Click the Edge menu icon Microsoft Edge (chromium) menu icon (at the upper-right corner of Microsoft Edge), select "Extensions". Locate all recently-installed suspicious browser add-ons and click "Remove" below their names.

Removing adware from Microsoft Edge step 2

Optional method:

If you continue to have problems with removal of the acerpalmatum unwanted extension, reset your Microsoft Edge browser settings. Click the Edge menu icon Microsoft Edge (chromium) menu icon (at the top right corner of Microsoft Edge) and select Settings.

Microsoft Edge (Chromium) reset step 1

In the opened settings menu select Reset settings.

Microsoft Edge (Chromium) reset step 2

Select Restore settings to their default values. In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Microsoft Edge settings to default by clicking the Reset button.

Microsoft Edge (Chromium) reset step 3

  • If this did not help, follow these alternative instructions explaining how to reset the Microsoft Edge browser.

Summary:

declining installation of adware while downloading free software sampleCommonly, adware or potentially unwanted applications infiltrate Internet browsers through free software downloads. Note that the safest source for downloading free software is via developers' websites only. To avoid installation of adware, be very attentive when downloading and installing free software. When installing previously-downloaded free programs, choose the custom or advanced installation options – this step will reveal any potentially unwanted applications listed for installation together with your chosen free program.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What harm can AcerPalmatum cause?

AcerPalmatum may change browsers' appearance and behavior. This piece of software could also be used to exploit browsers' vulnerabilities and cause further infections. Furthermore, this extension has data-tracking functionalities – hence, it is classified as a privacy threat.

What does AcerPalmatum do?

AcerPalmatum has the ability to manage browsers' apps, extensions, themes, and other settings. This extension uses the "Managed by your organization" browser feature to gain further access and complicate its removal. Additionally, AcerPalmatum reads browsing histories and gathers data stored on browsers.

How do AcerPalmatum developers generate revenue?

AcerPalmatum can sell the data collected from browsers (e.g., log-in credentials, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, etc.). Revenue may also be generated through further infections or other harmful activities.

Will Combo Cleaner remove malicious extensions?

Yes, Combo Cleaner can scan devices and eliminate threats. It must be mentioned that manual removal (unaided by security tools) might be ineffective. In some instances, file leftovers remain hidden within the system after the software has been manually removed. What is more, the remnants might continue to run and cause issues. Therefore, it is essential to eliminate unwanted software thoroughly.

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About the author:

Tomas Meskauskas

Tomas Meskauskas - expert security researcher, professional malware analyst.

I am passionate about computer security and technology. I have an experience of over 10 years working in various companies related to computer technical issue solving and Internet security. I have been working as an author and editor for pcrisk.com since 2010. Follow me on Twitter and LinkedIn to stay informed about the latest online security threats. Contact Tomas Meskauskas.

PCrisk security portal is brought by a company RCS LT. Joined forces of security researchers help educate computer users about the latest online security threats. More information about the company RCS LT.

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Software uninstall instructions
Malware activity

Global malware activity level today:

Medium threat activity

Increased attack rate of infections detected within the last 24 hours.

QR Code
AcerPalmatum unwanted extension QR code
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