FacebookTwitterLinkedIn

How to remove PrivacyKeeper from computers

Also Known As: PrivacyKeeper unwanted program
Damage level: Medium

What is PrivacyKeeper?

PrivacyKeeper is advertised as a tool that helps users to analyze how secure their profile is on websites where they have shared their email addresses. However, it may be distributed via unreliable installers, which is why we have classified it as a potentially unwanted application.

PrivacyKeeper potentially unwanted application

PrivacyKeeper potentially unwanted application overview

The potential risks of using PrivacyKeeper depend on how and where it is obtained. If downloaded from unreliable or untrustworthy sources, it could expose users to a range of different threats. Sometimes, unofficial installers might include additional unwanted software, such as adware, browser hijackers, or even malicious programs.

These additional programs could lead to several issues, including unwanted advertisements, diminished user experience, unexpected redirects, potential data theft, persistent and intrusive notifications or system alerts, and similar negative outcomes. In some cases, installing PrivacyKeeper could also result in performance problems, like slowdowns or crashes.

It is known that PrivacyKeeper is capable of using all system resources. Furthermore, downloading PrivacyKeeper from questionable sources might enable the collection of personal information, such as browsing habits, system details, and IP addresses, all of which could be misused or sold to third parties.

Thus, users should only download software from reliable, well-known sources and ensure they are using official installers.

Threat Summary:
Name PrivacyKeeper unwanted program
Threat Type Potentially unwanted program
Functionality Web browser
Detection Names (Installer) N/A (VirusTotal)
Detection Names (Application) N/A (VirusTotal)
Symptoms Slow performance, frequent pop-up ads, unexpected redirects to unfamiliar websites, and the presence of unfamiliar programs or toolbars.
Distribution Methods Deceptive pop-up ads, free software installers (bundling), fake updates, questionable websites.
Damage Slow computer performance, potential privacy and security issues.
Malware Removal (Windows)

To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your computer with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner.
▼ Download Combo Cleaner
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.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while PrivacyKeeper may offer useful features, downloading it from unreliable sources can expose users to various risks, including unwanted software, privacy issues, and system performance problems. To ensure safety and avoid potential complications, it is essential to obtain software only from trusted, legitimate sources and use official installation methods.

More examples of apps classified as potentially unwanted are Caveqn App, NetGuard, and PrivacyShield.

How did potentially unwanted applications install on my computer?

Users often install unwanted apps by downloading them from untrustworthy sources, such as third-party downloaders, unofficial app stores or pages, P2P networks, etc. Free software bundles may also include additional apps. These apps can be installed if users do not carefully review the installation process and reject unwanted offers through the provided settings (e.g., "Advanced" or "Custom").

Deceptive pop-ups, notifications from unreliable websites, phishing emails, and similar channels can also be used to trick users into downloading unwanted software. Additionally, pirated software can often come bundled with unwanted programs.

How to avoid installation of potentially unwanted applications?

Always download files and apps from reputable app stores or official websites. When installing programs, review the settings (such as “Custom” or “Advanced”) to check for any mentions of unwanted apps and deselect them.

Avoid clicking on suspicious links, pop-ups, or advertisements on untrustworthy websites. Do not grant permission to show notifications to questionable sites. Keep your system and applications up to date, and regularly scan your device with reliable security software. If your computer is already infected with rogue apps, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate them.

Results shown by PrivacyKeeper after entering an email address:

PrivacyKeeper Potentially Unwanted Application shows scan results

Installation setup of PrivacyKeeper application:

PrivacyKeeper potentially unwanted application installation setup

Installation folder of PrivacyKeeper:

PrivacyKeeper Potentially Unwanted Application installation folder

Website promoting PrivacyKeeper application:

Website used to promote PrivacyKeeper potentially unwanted application

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:

Removal of potentially unwanted applications:

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.

PrivacyKeeper uninstall via Control Panel

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

After uninstalling the potentially unwanted application, 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:

At time of research, PrivacyKeeper did not install any unwanted browser extensions, however, some unwanted applications can be installed together with adware and browser hijackers. If you experience unwanted ads or redirects when browsing the Internet, continue with the removal guide below.

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

Google Chrome logoRemove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:

Removing rogue 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 all recently-installed suspicious extensions, select these entries and click "Remove".

Removing rogue extensions from Google Chrome step 2

Optional method:

If you continue to have problems with removal of the privacykeeper unwanted program, 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 rogue 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 all recently-installed suspicious extensions, click on the three dots and then click "Remove".

Removing rogue extensions from Mozilla Firefox step 2

Optional method:

Computer users who have problems with privacykeeper unwanted program 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 privacykeeper unwanted program, 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 privacykeeper unwanted program or it's removal please share your knowledge in the comments section below.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the purpose of an unwanted application?

Unwanted applications are generally designed to generate revenue by displaying intrusive ads, collecting user data, and (or) exposing users to potentially unsafe websites. In some cases, they may also serve more harmful purposes.

Is PrivacyKeeper application legal?

Typically, unwanted applications are legally allowed because their End User License Agreements (EULA) disclose the actions they might take, such as displaying ads or collecting data, to the users.

Is having PrivacyKeeper installed on my computer dangerous?

If obtained from an unreliable source, PrivacyKeeper may pose various risks, including threats to privacy and security.

Will Combo Cleaner help me remove PrivacyKeeper application?

Combo Cleaner will perform a scan of your computer to detect and eliminate all malicious or unwanted applications. While manual removal might not always be entirely successful due to hidden file remnants, Combo Cleaner ensures complete removal of unwanted apps.

▼ Show Discussion

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.

Our malware removal guides are free. However, if you want to support us you can send us a donation.

About PCrisk

PCrisk is a cyber security portal, informing Internet users about the latest digital threats. Our content is provided by security experts and professional malware researchers. Read more about us.

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
PrivacyKeeper unwanted program QR code
Scan this QR code to have an easy access removal guide of PrivacyKeeper unwanted program on your mobile device.
We Recommend:

Get rid of Windows malware infections today:

▼ REMOVE IT NOW
Download Combo Cleaner

Platform: Windows

Editors' Rating for Combo Cleaner:
Editors ratingOutstanding!

[Back to Top]

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.