How to remove WinZip Registry Optimizer (Virus Removal Guide)

WinZip Registry Optimizer uses deceptive marketing tactics to get users to install the program with or without direct consent and knowledge. The program typically installs alongside other unwanted programs and adware like NetRadio. WinZip Registry Optimizer is recognized as a potentially unwanted program (or PUP) by most reputable Antivirus and Anti-Malware programs like Malwarebytes and HitmanPro. The unwanted program is known to collect user data, perform misleading scans, bundle with programs that serve advertisements to the user in their web browser and Windows desktop, and bundle with programs that change existing internet browser settings, which essentially causes affected web browsers to start-up on and redirect to sponsored webpages. Once a computer has become infected with the “WinZip Registry Optimizer virus” the program will edit Windows registry and make modifications to the computer system in order to run every time Windows starts. The process WinZip Registry Optimizer.exe (and others) will remain active in Windows Task Manager and the file can enable itself if the process has been manually ended.

WinZip Registry Optimizer Screenshot

WinZip Registry Optimizer
Threat Details

Name(s) WinZip Registry Optimizer, WinZip Registry Optimizer virus
Detection Categories Scareware, Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP)
Short Description The PUP is promoted as a free Windows optimizer.
Symptoms The user may experience unwanted advertisements and redirects in the web browser from bundled programs.
Distribution Method The PUP bundles with freeware and dubious files.
Detection Tool Download Malware Removal Tool

What is WinZip Registry Optimizer?

WinZip Registry Optimizer is promoted as a Windows optimizer program that can clean your registry to make your computer faster. The description for the program claims that it scans, fixes, and repairs PC registry. It also claims to prevent system crashes and improve stability and performance. However, the program is not free to use. In order to use all the features the user must purchase the product. The claims made by the product have not been evaluated; However, the program is detected by Anti-Malware software as being potentially malicious and possibly misleading.

WinZip Registry Optimizer virus

Potential WinZip Registry Optimizer malware and adware that it bundles with will generate pop-up and in-text style ads on the internet and Windows desktop. The programs may even show a large bar at the top of Windows desktop that contains links and a search box. Various user details may also be obtained by the adware and used for a several different purposes. The data collection is described in the product’s Privacy Policy and allotted permissions if a browser attachment is present. Getting to know the Privacy Policy, Terms of Use and Download Agreement of freeware is crucial to keeping your online information secure.

WinZip Registry Optimizer Removal Guide

WinZip Registry Optimizer can be uninstalled manually from your computer and internet browser. We have provided several steps below the article to show you how remove WinZip Registry Optimizer and other threats. However, if you have clicked on any random ads or have been redirected to suspicious websites, your system may have been exposed to malware and other threats. To make sure your PC is completely clean and your information is protected from cyber criminals, we recommend that you follow all the steps below.

Quick Links

Step 1: Uninstall WinZip Registry Optimizer from Windows

Follow the instructions to uninstall WinZip Registry Optimizer and other programs that it may bundle with from your Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10 computer. If you do not find WinZip Registry Optimizer installed on your computer but still notice unwanted symptoms such as pop-up ads while you browse the web it is recommended to use Malwarebytes and HitmanPro to eradicate troublesome files.

1. Open Windows Start or Task menu and go to the Control Panel (or directly to Programs and Features).

2. In the “Programs” section click Uninstall a program (or Add and remove programs).

WinZip Registry Optimizer removal

3. Search for WinZip Registry Optimizer (by WinZip International Ltd) and other programs in the list of installed programs and double click the program you want to remove to uninstall it. You can also select WinZip Registry Optimizer with your mouse and click the Uninstall button once it appears. Once you have uninstalled WinZip Registry Optimizer look for other unwanted programs in the list of installed programs and uninstall any if they are found. A general tip is to click “Installed On” to locate any programs that installed around the same time. Uninstalling the program will not completely remove it. Follow the steps for more instructions.

Step 2: Remove unwanted browser attachments

Follow the instructions to remove unwanted add-ons and extensions, as well as other attachments that the program may bundle with from Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Internet Explorer & Edge, and Apple Safari. If you do not find unwnated attachments installed on your internet browser but still notice unwanted symptoms such as pop-up ads while you browse the web it is recommended to use Malwarebytes and HitmanPro to eradicate troublesome files.

Google Chrome

1. Click the Customize and control Google Chrome icon and go to More tools > Extensions.

2. Search for unwanted extensions in the list and click the trashcan icon.

Mozilla Firefox

1. Open the Menu and click Add-ons.

2. Search for unwanted add-ons and click Remove.

Apple Safari

1. Go to Safari > Preferences > Extensions.

2.  Search for unwanted extensions in the list and click the Uninstall button.

Step 3: Remove WinZip Registry Optimizer virus with Malwarebytes

Follow the instructions to remove WinZip Registry Optimizer with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware software.

1. Download and install Malwarebytes Anti-Malware software.

2. Launch Malwarebytes Anti-Malware software once it has finished installing.

3. Make sure that Malwarebytes has been updated. To ensure it is updated click Update Now on the Dashboard.

4. Click the large Scan Now button on the dashboard to perform a scan with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware software.

remove WinZip Registry Optimizer

5. When the scan is complete click the Remove Selected button and then click the Finish button or restart your computer if Malwarebytes suggests that you do so.

Step 4: Remove WinZip Registry Optimizer malware with HitmanPro

Follow the instructions to remove WinZip Registry Optimizer with HitmanPro second-opinion software.

1. Download and install HitmanPro second opinion scanner and removal tool.

3. Once Hitman Pro is installed, open the program and click Next to start scanning your computer. *If you are using the free version you may chose to create a copy or perform a one-time scan.

4. When the scan is complete, click the Next button again to delete any threats or traces on your system.

5. If you are initially using the free version, to activate it, enter your email address twice and click the Activate button.

6. Restart your computer by selecting Reboot.

Step 5: Clean and repair your computer with CCleaner

Follow the instructions to clean your computer and repair your computer’s settings.

1. Download and install CCleaner by Piriform.

2. Once installed, open the program and go to the main Cleaner screen and click the Analyze button. Afterwards, click the Run Cleaner button on the bottom right of the program interface.

3. Next, navigate to Tools > Startup and search through each tab starting from windows, internet explorer, etc., all the way to Content Menu, for additional suspicious entries. If you find any thing suspicious click it and click the Delete button to remove it.

4. To finish things off, go to the Registry window and click the Scan for Issues button. When the scan is complete click the Fix selected issues… button and click Fix All Selected Issues.

Sean Doyle

Sean is a distinguished tech author and entrepreneur with over 20 years of extensive experience in cybersecurity, privacy, malware, Google Analytics, online marketing, and various other tech domains. His expertise and contributions to the industry have been recognized in numerous esteemed publications. Sean is widely acclaimed for his sharp intellect and innovative insights, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the tech community. His work not only advances the field but also helps businesses and individuals navigate the complexities of the digital world.

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