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How to remove AltocumulusStratiformis malicious extension

Also Known As: AltocumulusStratiformis unwanted application
Type: Adware
Damage level: Medium

What kind of program is AltocumulusStratiformis?

In the course of an examination of a malicious installer, the AltocumulusStratiformis browser extension has been discovered. It appears that AltocumulusStratiformis has no real value and can cause various issues to users. One noteworthy function of AltocumulusStratiformis is its ability to activate the "Managed by your organization" feature in Chrome and Edge browsers.

AltocumulusStratiformis malicious extension

AltocumulusStratiformis in detail

The enabling of the "Managed by your organization" setting is commonly linked to organizational policies dictating control over browser configurations. AltocumulusStratiformis might leverage this setting to enact modifications aligned with its questionable objectives, posing a risk of compromised and less secure online experiences for users.

Furthermore, AltocumulusStratiformis possesses the capacity to read data on all websites. This implies that the extension can retrieve various information, including sensitive data like credit card details and passwords, from any website. Such data can be misused for malicious purposes (e.g., identity theft or fraudulent transactions).

Additionally, AltocumulusStratiformis possesses the capability to oversee themes and extensions in browsers. This can affect the appearance and functionality of the browser. For instance, AltocumulusStratiformis may change themes, add and remove apps (extensions) that may be harmful, or disable active apps.

In addition, AltocumulusStratiformis is spread through a harmful installer that bundles various unwanted applications like the Chromstera browser. Furthermore, the dissemination of AltocumulusStratiformis may encompass the involvement of browser hijackers, adware, or other undesirable programs.

Threat Summary:
Name AltocumulusStratiformis unwanted application
Threat Type Malicious Extension
Detection Names (Installer) Fortinet (PossibleThreat), Google (Detected), Gridinsoft (PUP.Win32.Chromnius.dg!c), Kaspersky (Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.Win32.WebCompanion.gen), Rising (Adware.WebCompanion!8.171BF (CLOUD)), Full List (VirusTotal)
Symptoms The "Managed by your organization" feature is activated in Chrome and Edge browser, Chromstera browser is installed, your computer becomes slower than normal, you see unwanted pop-up ads, you are redirected to dubious websites.
Distribution methods Dubious websites, malicious installers, deceptive pop-up ads, free software installers (bundling), torrent file downloads.
Damage Internet browser tracking (potential privacy issues), display of unwanted ads, redirects to dubious websites, loss of private information.
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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Conclusion

In conclusion, AltocumulusStratiformis emerges as a concerning application, introducing a range of issues and potential harms for users. The cumulative impact of AltocumulusStratiformis underscores the need for heightened awareness and caution to mitigate the potential damages it may inflict on users' online security and privacy.

More examples of apps similar to AltocumulusStratiformis are CornusMas, PakicetusAttocki, and Platyhelminthes.

How did unwanted software install on my computer?

Users typically install or add apps like AltocumulusStratiformis unintentionally or without a full understanding of the consequences. This particular app is distributed via a malicious installer hosted on a dubious page.

Another common method involves bundling the unwanted app with other seemingly legitimate software during installation. Users may overlook installation prompts (settings or checkboxes), inadvertently accepting the inclusion of shady applications.

Additionally, rogue apps may be distributed through deceptive advertisements, misleading websites, fake software updates, P2P networks, third-party app stores, etc., tricking users into downloading and installing (or adding) them.

How to avoid installation of unwanted applications?

Be cautious when downloading software and prioritize using official and trustworthy sources (official sites and app stores). Refrain from downloading applications from dubious websites or third-party app stores, and avoid clicking links provided in dubious emails or pop-ups and ads.

Choose the "Advanced" or "Custom" settings whenever installing new programs, and meticulously examine the installation options to unselect any bundled or unwanted software. Furthermore, ensure consistent updates for both the operating system and security software.

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

Website promoting the installer that includes the AltocumulusStratiformis app:

AltocumulusStratiformis malicious extension promoter

AltocumulusStratiformis app information:

AltocumulusStratiformis malicious extension app info

AltocumulusStratiformis on Edge browser:

AltocumulusStratiformis malicious extension 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.

AltocumulusStratiformis malicious extension 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 application, scan your computer for any remaining unwanted components or possible malware infections. To scan your computer, use recommended malware removal software.

Remove unwanted apps from Internet browsers:

Video showing how to remove unwanted browser add-ons:

Google Chrome logoRemove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:

Removing AltocumulusStratiformis malicious extension 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 "AltocumulusStratiformis" or other suspicious extensions, select these entries and click "Remove".

Removing AltocumulusStratiformis malicious extension from Google Chrome step 2

Optional method:

If you continue to have problems with removal of the altocumulusstratiformis unwanted application, 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 plug-ins from Mozilla Firefox:

Removing AltocumulusStratiformis malicious extension 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 all recently-installed suspicious extensions, click on the three dots and then click "Remove".

Removing AltocumulusStratiformis malicious extension from Mozilla Firefox step 2

Optional method:

Computer users who have problems with altocumulusstratiformis unwanted application 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 altocumulusstratiformis unwanted application, 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.

Post a comment:
If you have additional information on altocumulusstratiformis unwanted application or it's removal please share your knowledge in the comments section below.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What harm can AltocumulusStratiformis cause?

AltocumulusStratiformis presents a multifaceted threat, encompassing privacy infringement, security compromises, and disruptions to users' online environments.

What does AltocumulusStratiformis do?

AltocumulusStratiformis is a potentially harmful browser extension that can activate the "Managed by your organization" feature in Chrome and Edge browsers, read data on all pages, and manage extensions (and themes).

How do AltocumulusStratiformis developers generate revenue?

AltocumulusStratiformis developers likely generate revenue through advertising, displaying intrusive ads or sponsored content, and potentially by redirecting users to specific websites. They may also collect and sell user data to third parties.

Will Combo Cleaner remove AltocumulusStratiformis?

Combo Cleaner will run a scan of your computer and eradicate any installed rogue applications. Manual removal may not be foolproof, as some components might endure and remain active even after removal.

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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
AltocumulusStratiformis unwanted application QR code
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