Summary
This program delivers advertising content to the user. It is usually annoying but harmless, unless it is combined with spyware or trackware.
Removal
Based on the settings of your F-Secure security product, it may block the file from running, move it to the quarantine where it cannot spread or cause harm, or ask you to select an action.
A False Positive is when a file is incorrectly detected as harmful, usually because its code or behavior resembles known harmful programs. A False Positive will usually be fixed in a subsequent database update without any action needed on your part. If you wish, you may also:
Check for the latest database updates
First, check if your F-Secure security program is using the latest updates, then try scanning the file again.
Submit a sample
After checking, if you still believe the file is incorrectly detected, you can submit a sample of it for re-analysis.
Note: If the file was moved to quarantine, you need to collect the file from quarantine before you can submit it.
Exclude a file from further scanning
If you are certain that the file is safe and want to continue using it, you can exclude it from further scanning by the F-Secure security product.
Note: You need administrative rights to change the settings.
Technical Details
This is a generic description for Adware:W32/Searchcolor adware family. There are multiple variants in this family.
This adware may be distributed bundled with other applications. It may also be silently downloaded onto the system when an unsuspecting user browses a malicious website.
Installation
During installation, the adware drops the following:
- %Program Files%\VSToolbar\VSToolBar.dll
This is the file detected as Adware:W32/Searchcolor.& The file is installed as a Microsoft Internet Explorer (IE) toolbar, known as VSToolbar.
The adware also drops the following files as part of its installation:
- %User%\Application Data\SearchToolbarCorp\Toolbar Vision\PageHistory.txt
- %User%\Application Data\SearchToolbarCorp\Toolbar Vision\WebHistory.txt
The adware also creates some registry keys (see above).
Activity
This is what the toolbar looks like:
The dropped DLL will be referenced every time IE is launched.
The adware will run hidden in the background, unknown from the user.
Registry Modifications
Sets these values:
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Search Toolbar Corp
- HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\CLSID\{821F87FF-8245-4972-9E28-732E92EC2F51}
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Classes\CLSID\{821F87FF-8245-4972-9E28-732E92EC2F51}&&&
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall\{821F87FF-8245-4972-9E28-732E92EC2F51}
Removal
This adware also includes an uninstallation functionality, and it is listed as "VSToolbar for Internet Explorer" in the Add/Remove Application menu in Control Panel.& Once uninstalled, it will delete its registries keys. The DLL file however will still remain in the system.
Protect your devices from malware with F‑Secure Total
Protecting your devices from malicious software is essential for maintaining online security. F‑Secure Total makes this easy, helping you to secure your devices in a brilliantly simple way.
Award‑winning antivirus and malware protection
Online browsing, banking, and shopping protection
24/7 online identity and data breach monitoring
Unlimited VPN service to safeguard your privacy
Password manager with private data protection
Choose how many devices you want to protect to get started.
Free customer support
Cancel anytime
The trial does not obligate you to buy the product
After 30 days your subscription will renew automatically for one year at €69.99.
)
)
More Support
Community
Ask questions in our Community.
User guides
Check the user guide for instructions.
Contact Support
Chat with with or call an agent.
Submit a Sample
Submit a file or URL for analysis.