Summary
A program that collects information on user browsing behavior, usually without a user's knowledge or authorization.
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
Note: The 'Data Miner' Type was previously used by F-Secure to identify a program that collects information on user browsing behavior, usually without a user's knowledge or authorization. Today, such programs would be classified as 'Trackware'.
Activity
The information by a Data Miner can include data entered into online forms, such as sensitive account details and passwords. Once the information is collected, it is usually transmitted to an external party.
Programs categorized as Data Miners may also include additional behaviors, which may be considered undesirable to the individual user.
These behaviors may or may not be explicitly stated in the product's End User License Agreement (EULA). In some cases, the program may not display an EULA at all.
These behaviors include:
- Hijacking the web browser (redirecting web traffic to unsolicited sites)
- Displayed unsolicited advertisements (pop-ups, search results, etc)
- Silently adds bookmarks to the web browser
- Silently installs a browser helper object (BHO) - usually a toolbar
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.