Malwarebytes Anti-Malware + Junkware Removal Tool = Bad News for PUPs
With the recent acquisition of the popular Junkware Removal Tool software, Malwarebytes has added another string to its security bow. Although, I guess it’s really a case of strengthening an existing string rather than adding something new.
Although not sporting a traditional GUI and purely a command line tool, Junkware Removal Tool has proven to be a popular download among those wanting to rid their computers of unwanted crapware. Now, according to a recent press release, Malwarebytes has procured the software as well as the services of the tool’s developer, Filipos Mouliatis.
Junkware Removal Tool is a security utility that searches for and removes common adware, toolbars, and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) from your computer. With the acquisition of JRT, we are reinforcing how serious we are about potentially unwanted programs which often trick users into getting installed and provide no real value to the end user. <source>
However, Malwarebyes has made it clear that it is not planning to develop the tool further as a standalone software, such as adding a GUI or options to provide better user controls. Instead, the technology will be utilized to enhance existing adware/PUP detection and removal abilities in its flagship product Malwarebytes Anti-Malware:
The developer of the tool, Filipos Mouliatis, joins our research team and will help us integrate the JRT technologies into our mainline Malwarebytes Anti-Malware product.
The blog post goes on to advise that Junkware Removal Tool will remain available to download as a separate entity for the time being – “at least until we’re able to replicate the functionality into Malwarebytes Anti-Malware”.
- View Malwarebytes’ press release here: Malwarebytes Acquires Junkware Removal Tool
- More information re Junkware Removal Tool here: Junkware Removal Tool
- Also available to download here: bleepingcomputer.com – JRT
*PUP = Potentially Unwanted Programs
I use both, can’t wait until the both are combined!
I was kind of hoping that when my malwarebytes pro updated to a new version yesterday it would combine the two, but I guess it’s kind of soon for that ….. maybe the next version.
Due to a great deal of hassles in the past over insidious toolbars and PUPs with Malwarebytes I would not trust the programme again.
I discovered Emsisoft, which is a superior product with a high-class support service with a 24 hour return reply framework.
The Emergency Kit of Emsisoft is useful for a quick solution of clients’ various virus/malware problems.
The added benefit of a regular newsletter keeps users informed of changes in the malware world along with regular test results of various anti-virus programmes from AV -TESTS.
Jonno, I think you’ve maybe been reading too much rubbish on the Cloudeight Info Ave site mate.
JoninOz. I do not work for Malwarebytes, just use and trust their software for several years now. Just last year I added their Anti-Exploit Premium software which protects browsers (and much more). I’ve only experienced excellent results, so I’m at a loss to understand your comments, Mindblower!
I ran JRT and it automatically deleted two of my favourite “pup’s”. I then had to reinstall them. It would be better for JRT to give us a choice before it decides to delete what it perceives as a “pup”.