Over the past few weeks, Malware such as Conduit has been infecting computers in record numbers. This software might not be totally classified as a virus but it can and does 
take over your computer and takes you to pages that you do not request.
This type of ad ware is not new; it has been around almost as long as Windows has. The thing with this software is that it requires your input in order to get installed. It does not just jump into your machine. It usually comes bundled with other software that is free. A prime example is the VLC player. I have seen at least 15 infections from the downloading of this player over the past week.
The player itself is not a problem; it is the software that is downloaded with it. When you download free software, never use the default settings to install the software. You always want to use the custom install option. When using this option you will be able to uncheck all the crazy programs that are trying to install on your system. Unfortunately many free programs are made free by the advertisers that put this garbage into there downloads. Like I said if you are careful there is almost always a way to bypass the malicious downloads.
Software like Conduit is not a virus. I need to just make that clear. Software such as this will often come in the form of a toolbar or search bar. The program will then take over your browser and begin to redirect you to potentially malicious sites. This is where the danger lurks. The redirected sites could then install malicious virus infections into your computer.
Most users who get Conduit will usually also have other valid virus infections in their computer as well. So if you find yourself with a redirecting browser and ad pop-ups all over the place, do not take it lightly. Have a professional clean your system out immediately. The longer you wait, the more likely you will get a full blown dangerous Trojan and many of these infections can be a security issue.
It appears that Conduit fools the folks that are sending you the install for their program by promising them money for every download that is made. In many cases the companies, such as VLC Player, do not even know that thousands of computers are being destroyed by the extra downloads that are included with their software.
Programs such as Malwarebytes can help to identify Conduit and remove the main part of the program. In most cases, the program is still active in the browser and a browser reset will be required. Remember that there may be other infections that you do not see so a professional cleaning is still recommended.
In short, anytime you partake in a free download be sure to carefully read all the install information. If there is a custom install option, be sure to use it. In almost every case, you will be able to avoid the bad programs and keep your system clean while still enjoying the benefit of the program that you actually want.
Article by, Joe Z
Posted by, Ross Deprey from Computer Geeks Online
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