Spyware Level: Extremely High
Firstly, what is Spyware? We define spyware as anything that contains telemetry, calling home, automatic updates, or is eavesdropping without the user's knowledge or consent.
CCleaner, developed by Piriform, is a utility programme utilised in the cleansing of potentially undesirable files and invalid Windows Registry entries from a computer.
1. CCleaner gathers and sells consumer data to advertisers
CCleaner unmistakably exhibits in its privateness settings that it is accumulating information concerning your computer and merchandising that information to advertisers. Below is a screenshot exhibiting how to lessen some of it.
2. CCleaner monitors a vast array of personal details
Upon examining the privacy policy, it becomes apparent that CCleaner divulges the following information:
- IP Address
- Unique User ID
- Operating System
- Other Avast Products installed
- Physical Location
In addition, CCleaner interfaces with several spyware platforms, each of which gathers its own repositories of information:
- Google Analytics
- Logentries
To peruse the multitude of privacy policies (many of which are cryptic and complicated) would be an arduous task, yet it can be ascertained that CCleaner is replete with both third-party and first-party spyware.
3. CCleaner transmits undesired email correspondence
From the privacy policy:
"When we collect your email address, we may market our other products and services to you. You may choose to unsubscribe from future email marketing by following the instructions in the email."
4. Physical Location
As per the privacy policy, the CCleaner website endeavours to monitor your physical location:
"Our websites use cookies to acquire data that may be used to determine your physical location via your Internet Protocol address (“IP Address”) and automated geolocation techniques, or to acquire basic information about the computer, tablet, or mobile phone that you use to visit us."
Mention of 'location data' is also made when addressing the information that CCleaner itself gathers on its users.
Past Security Flaws
In the past, there have been instances where CCleaner encountered security vulnerabilities, and backdoors were introduced therein.
CONCLUSION
The usage of CCleaner must be avoided by those engaging in hacking or carding activities to maintain a secure and clean personal computer. Instead, these actions ought to be performed manually or alternatively, the use of BleachBit is recommended.
