Remove PUA:Win32/RDPWrap

PUA:Win32/RDPWrap is a Potentially Unwanted Application (PUA) classified as a browser hijacker and adware. This intrusive program modifies browser settings, leading to unwanted redirects, excessive pop-up advertisements, and potential exposure to malicious websites. It often infiltrates systems through software bundles, fake updates, and misleading browser extensions, tricking users into unknowingly installing it.

Although it is not technically a virus, PUA:Win32/RDPWrap can disrupt browsing experiences, expose users to phishing attacks, data theft, and privacy invasions. Many users report persistent redirects to Yahoo.com or other unwanted search engines, making it clear that the program aims to manipulate browsing activity for ad revenue.

To better understand the threat, let’s look at its primary characteristics in the table below:

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PUA:Win32/RDPWrap Threat Summary

Attribute	Details
Threat Type	Browser Hijacker, Adware, PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program)
Detection Names	PUA:Win32/RDPWrap, Adware.RDPWrap, PUP.Optional.RDPWrap
Symptoms	– Browser redirects to Yahoo or other unwanted search engines – Excessive pop-up ads and push notifications – Unauthorized changes to homepage and search settings – System slowdown due to background processes – New, unknown browser extensions installed
Damage	– Privacy risks due to data tracking – Exposure to phishing sites and scams – System performance degradation – Potential risk of additional malware infections
Distribution Methods	– Free software bundles – Fake software updates – Malicious ads and pop-ups – Unverified browser extensions
Danger Level	Medium (high risk of privacy invasion and system manipulation)

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How Does PUA:Win32/RDPWrap Work?

Once installed, PUA:Win32/RDPWrap alters browser settings, hijacking the default search engine, homepage, and new tab settings. The hijacker’s goal is to generate advertising revenue by redirecting users to partner sites, often through aggressive push notifications and embedded ads.

Additionally, it can collect browsing habits, IP addresses, and other non-personal data, which may be used for targeted advertising or even sold to third parties. Some versions of PUA:Win32/RDPWrap may also install additional adware or unwanted programs, further deteriorating system performance.

How to Remove Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) – Full Guide

Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) are intrusive applications that often install without clear user consent, usually bundled with free software. These programs can cause browser hijacking, unwanted ads, slow performance, and security risks. Follow the instructions below to remove PUPs from your Windows or Mac system, as well as from popular browsers.

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Manual PUP Removal Guide (Windows & Mac)

Step 1: Uninstall Suspicious Programs

For Windows Users

1. Open Control Panel:
   • Press Win + R, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.
2. Find and Remove Suspicious Applications:
   • Look for unfamiliar or suspicious applications.
   • Right-click the unwanted program and select Uninstall.
3. Follow the On-Screen Prompts:
   • If a dialog box appears asking for confirmation, click Yes.

For Mac Users

1. Open Finder → Click Applications.
2. Locate Unwanted Apps:
   • Look for recently installed suspicious programs.
3. Move to Trash:
   • Drag the program to Trash or right-click and select Move to Trash.
4. Empty the Trash:
   • Right-click the Trash icon and select Empty Trash.

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Step 2: Remove PUP-Related Browser Extensions

PUPs often install malicious browser extensions that cause unwanted redirects and intrusive ads.

Google Chrome

1. Open Chrome → Click on the three-dot menu (top-right).
2. Navigate to Extensions:
   • Click More Tools → Extensions.
3. Remove Suspicious Extensions:
   • Locate unknown extensions and click Remove.

Mozilla Firefox

1. Open Firefox → Click on the menu button (≡) → Select Add-ons and themes.
2. Go to the Extensions tab.
3. Find and Remove suspicious extensions.

Microsoft Edge

1. Open Edge → Click on the three-dot menu.
2. Select Extensions → Click Manage Extensions.
3. Locate and Remove unwanted extensions.

Safari (Mac)

1. Open Safari → Click Safari in the menu bar → Select Preferences.
2. Navigate to the Extensions tab.
3. Find and Uninstall unknown extensions.

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Step 3: Reset Browser Settings (Optional)

If the PUP modified browser settings, reset them.

Google Chrome

1. Open Chrome → Click three-dot menu → Settings.
2. Scroll down and click Reset settings → Restore settings to their original defaults.
3. Confirm by clicking Reset settings.

Mozilla Firefox

1. Open Firefox → Click Menu → Help → More Troubleshooting Information.
2. Click Refresh Firefox → Confirm.

Microsoft Edge

1. Open Edge → Go to Settings → Click Reset settings.
2. Choose Restore settings to their default values → Confirm.

Safari (Mac)

1. Open Safari → Click Safari in the menu bar → Clear History.
2. Select All History → Click Clear History.

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Step 4: Check for Remaining PUP Files

Windows

1. Press Win + R, type %temp%, and hit Enter.
2. Delete all files in the Temp folder.
3. Repeat the process with %appdata%, %localappdata%, and C:\ProgramData.

Mac

1. Open Finder → Click Go → Go to Folder.
2. Enter:javascriptCopyEdit~/Library/Application Support/
3. Locate and delete suspicious folders.

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Automatic PUP Removal Using SpyHunter

For a faster and more secure method, use SpyHunter, a trusted anti-malware tool. Follow these steps to remove PUPs automatically.

Step 1: Download and Install SpyHunter

1. Go to the official SpyHunter download page:
   • Download SpyHunter
2. Click the Download button and follow the on-screen installation steps.

Step 2: Perform a Full System Scan

1. Open SpyHunter after installation.
2. Click Start Scan Now to begin scanning your system.
3. Wait for the scan to complete and review the detected threats.

Step 3: Remove Detected PUPs

1. Click Fix Threats to remove all detected PUPs.
2. Restart your computer to complete the process.

For detailed SpyHunter download and installation instructions, refer to: SpyHunter Installation Guide

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Final Recommendations

• Avoid Free Software Bundles: Always opt-out of unwanted applications when installing free software.
• Use a Reputable Anti-Malware Tool: SpyHunter helps prevent and remove PUP infections.
• Stay Vigilant: Regularly check installed programs and browser extensions.

By following this guide, you can effectively remove and prevent Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) from infecting your device. If you need a quick solution, download and use SpyHunter for automated removal.

Download SpyHunter for PUP Removal: SpyHunter Official Download

Conclusion

Although PUA:Win32/RDPWrap is not a virus, it is a serious security risk that disrupts your browsing experience and exposes you to malicious advertisements and potential cyber threats. Browser hijackers like this one often lead to further infections if left unchecked.

For users experiencing unwanted Yahoo redirects, pop-ups, and performance issues, investigating the cause and taking immediate action to remove PUA:Win32/RDPWrap is highly recommended.