AppSync.exe

AppSync.exe – a process that is running in the Task Manager and should not be trusted

AppSync.exe is an executable that is related to a potentially unwanted application named PUP.Optional.AppSync and other questionable AV tool detection results. These apps usually travel in software bundles – a clever technique used by PUP authors to spread their products. However, the process can also be linked to legitimate software called VMware ThinApp.^[1] Some analysis also revealed that this executable could be related to a crypto mining software and a data-stealer. 

The EXE extension shows that the file is created to launch a process, program and activate the operation. This is not the essential file or a piece related to Windows OS functions, so it is possible to remove the file if it is indicated as an AppSync.exe virus. You can determine that with anti-malware tool that checks various system parts for any traces of possible intruders and harmful files.

Let’s talk about all three different scenarios. If you installed an app called VMware ThinApp, then the AppSync.exe process is most likely harmless and will disappear as soon as the program is shut down. Nevertheless, we suggest you scan your PC with security software just to be sure, especially if the process uses high resources, such as memory, CPU, GPU or bandwidth.

What you are seeing, however, is most likely an adware application PUP.Optional.AppSync. Adware is a sneaky type of software that is usually bundled together with freeware and shareware. While ad-supported software is not considered to be malware, it might expose you to risk factors, such as phishing, scam, malware-laden, and similar dangerous sites. In such a scenario, you should remove AppSync.exe process from your machine.

If AppSync.exe is related to adware, you will most likely see the following symptoms:

• Intrusive ads, popups, hyperlinks, and similar unwanted content plagues Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox and other browsers;
• Redirects lead to all sorts of sites, including shady ones (porn, bogus software, etc.);
• Search results display sponsored links;
• Browser settings are altered and search engine hijacked;
• Bookmarks or desktop icons added without permission, etc.

While adware might result in malware infection, in some cases, AppSync.exe is malware. This process is known to be linked to crypto-mining malware, according to research.^[2] These malicious programs abuse the computer’s CPU to solve deep math problems, resulting in crypto generation directly into cybercriminals’ wallets.

Additionally, according to the aforementioned report, AppSync.exe can steal personal information, such as technical details of the PC, keyboard inputs, websites visited, etc. This activity might result in money loss or even identity theft. So do not risk it, do not let the malicious AppSync.exe run and terminate it as soon as possible.

 Protect yourself from malicious software that is lurking online

In order to protect yourself from malware, make sure you download and install adequate security solutions – it is the very first step in a malware-free computer. Nevertheless, the anti-virus engine is usually not enough, and you should make some efforts to prevent the intrusion.

First of all, you should be aware that something as simple as the installation of new software might end badly. Adware, browsers hijackers and other PUPs might lead you to the installation of dangerous software and infect your browsers with annoying ads, redirects, and similar.

Therefore, make sure you untick all the “special offers” and “deals” before you finalize the installation. Additionally, pick Advanced or Custom settings to be able to remove the pre-ticked programs.

Several other tips by experts:^[3]

• Keep your Windows system up to date – developers patch software flaws on a regular basis;
• Be aware that spam email attachments and dubious links can carry malicious payload;
• Use an effective ad-blocking application;
• Avoid high-risk websites, such as torrent, porn, free online gaming, and similar;
• Do not download “cracks” or “keygens’;
• Use a VPN;
• Protect all your accounts with strong passwords.

Remove AppSync.exe if the process is associated with adware or malware

As we already mentioned, there is no need to terminate AppSync.exe if the process is related to a legitimate application ThinApp. However, if you noticed that your device is acting a bit strange and this process is running on your Task manager – you should immediately take action.

You should download security software such as SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes and then scan the machine with Reimage Reimage Cleaner Intego to ensure a full AppSync.exe removal and possible file recovery. If adware is the culprit, the former will be able to eliminate the threat without any troubles.

However, any type of malware can be disguised as the mentioned executable, so there is no guarantee that specific software will detect it. Therefore, we would recommend scans with several engines, or use of such tools like Virus Total to see the purpose of AppSync.exe virus.