by Ventsislav Krastev | August 23, 2016 | 0 Comments adware, browser hijacker, PUP

A potentially unwanted application, known by the name Express Files has been detected to display Advertisements, download other unwanted software and add a custom browser extension to the computers of the affected user. The program has been reported to also heavily slow down computers. It has been installed on. In addition to this, Express Files may also collect certain user information to display targeted ads. Since advertisements shown by Express Files adware may lead to some third-party websites that may be dangerous to the user, malware researchers strongly advise removing this indirectly harmful software from your computer.

Threat Summary

Name	Express Files PUA
Type	PUP
Short Description	Displays advertisements and downloads other potentially unwatned programs on the computer. Advertised as useful software.
Symptoms	Slow PC, modified web browser settings, advertisements, other programs installed without consent.
Distribution Method	Enters the computer via fake advertisement websites and bundled downloads.
Detection Tool	See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware Download Malware Removal Tool
User Experience	Join our forum to Discuss Express Files.

Express Files Adware – Distribution

Express files may resemble a program with the almost identical name that aims to help the user search for files that are uploaded online and are publicly available for direct download online. It may be posted online under this pretext in shady third-party websites that advertise it as a freeware download. In addition to this, Express Files may also be available in combination with other programs downloaded from third-party websites as well. This is known as bundling and is a common strategy used to aggressively market third-party software via other free programs published by some websites. It is very effective because the included programs are usually concealed in the Advanced or Custom installation options of a given installer. The bottom line for protection from such applications, in general, is to always choose such options if available and in addition to that always to search for the original software providing websites to which the program you want to download belongs(official download links)

Express Files Adware – In-Depth Information

As soon as it is installed on the computer, Express files may drop all of it’s files I several different folders of it. Symantec researchers report the Express Files to be located in following folders:

%ProgramFiles% \ExpressFiles
%ProgramFiles% \GoforFiles

But, unfortunately, this is not all. Express Files Adware also heavily modifies the Windows Registry Editor, editing the following keys with it’s value strings and keys:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\ ExpressFiles
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\ GoforFiles
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\.DEFAULT\ Software\ExpressFiles
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\.DEFAULT\ Software\GoforFiles
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\{CUSTOM IDENTIFICATION}\ Software\ExpressFiles
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\{CUSTOM IDENTIFICATION}\ Software\GoforFiles
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\S-3-4-12\ Software\ExpressFiles
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\S-3-4-12\ Software\GoforFiles

After this is done, the program begins to act. Express Files’ main purpose is to download and install other adware programs or browser hijackers on the affected computer by connecting to remote hosts and using read and write permissions. It may install programs that display pop-ups, cause web browser redirects, and even download rogue programs that pretend to be your average antivirus software. Such programs cause “fake detections” on the affected computer scamming users to purchase licenses for the removal of these non-existent threats.

In addition to that, Express Files may also heavily modify the web browser of the user using the Windows Registry Editor and applying direct changes as well. It has been reported by malware researchers to add a browser extension as well.

The worse after-effect of this program is that it modifies the web browser’s settings to such extent that after the app is uninstalled, the settings are still modified, and the other PUPs it installed are still on the computer, changing the web browser’s home page and also displaying different ad-supported content as well as collect different information. The removal of these applications is highly advisable.

Removing Express Files Adware from Your Computer

To delete this program, we advise users to follow the removal instructions below and delete this program from your computer and your web browser. However, there are some settings that may remain irreversible, and some of the unwanted programs it may have installed on your computer may remain on it. This is why, to remove all files completely and swiftly without having to reinstall your operating system, malware researchers advise using an advanced anti-malware tool that will detect all files as well as registries and remove this and other programs thoroughly. It is also imperative to change all your passwords and credentials since it is not known to what extent your information may have already be exposed.

Ventsislav Krastev

Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.

How to Remove Express Files PUA from Windows.

Step 1: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove Express Files PUA

OFFER

Manual Removal Usually Takes Time and You Risk Damaging Your Files If Not Careful!

We Recommend To Scan Your PC with SpyHunter

Keep in mind, that SpyHunter’s scanner is only for malware detection. If SpyHunter detects malware on your PC, you will need to purchase SpyHunter's malware removal tool to remove the malware threats. Read our SpyHunter 5 review. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria

1. Hold Windows key() + R

2. The "Run" Window will appear. In it, type "msconfig" and click OK.

3. Go to the "Boot" tab. There select "Safe Boot" and then click "Apply" and "OK".

Tip: Make sure to reverse those changes by unticking Safe Boot after that, because your system will always boot in Safe Boot from now on.

4. When prompted, click on "Restart" to go into Safe Mode.

5. You can recognise Safe Mode by the words written on the corners of your screen.

Step 2: Uninstall Express Files PUA and related software from Windows

Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:

1. Hold the Windows Logo Button and "R" on your keyboard. A Pop-up window will appear.

2. In the field type in "appwiz.cpl" and press ENTER.

3. This will open a window with all the programs installed on the PC. Select the program that you want to remove, and press "Uninstall"

Follow the instructions above and you will successfully uninstall most programs.

Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Express Files PUA on your computer.

The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce

You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by Express Files PUA there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:

1. Open the Run Window again, type "regedit" and click OK.

2. When you open it, you can freely navigate to the Run and RunOnce keys, whose locations are shown above.

3. You can remove the value of the virus by right-clicking on it and removing it.

Tip: To find a virus-created value, you can right-click on it and click "Modify" to see which file it is set to run. If this is the virus file location, remove the value.

IMPORTANT!
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.

Step 4: Scan for Express Files PUA with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

1. Click on the "Download" button to proceed to SpyHunter's download page.

Download

Malware Removal Tool

It is recommended to run a scan before purchasing the full version of the software to make sure that the current version of the malware can be detected by SpyHunter. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria.

2. After you have installed SpyHunter, wait for it to update automatically.

3. After the update process has finished, click on the 'Malware/PC Scan' tab. A new window will appear. Click on 'Start Scan'.

4. After SpyHunter has finished scanning your PC for any files of the associated threat and found them, you can try to get them removed automatically and permanently by clicking on the 'Next' button.

If any threats have been removed, it is highly recommended to restart your PC.

Windows Mac OS X Google Chrome Mozilla Firefox Microsoft Edge Safari Internet Explorer Stop Push Pop-ups

Get rid of Express Files PUA from Mac OS X.

Step 1: Uninstall Express Files PUA and remove related files and objects

OFFER

Manual Removal Usually Takes Time and You Risk Damaging Your Files If Not Careful!

We Recommend To Scan Your Mac with SpyHunter for Mac

Keep in mind, that SpyHunter for Mac needs to purchased to remove the malware threats. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter’s EULA and Privacy Policy

1. Hit the ⇧+⌘+U keys to open Utilities. Another way is to click on “Go” and then click “Utilities”, like the image below shows:

2. Find Activity Monitor and double-click it:

3. In the Activity Monitor look for any suspicious processes, belonging or related to Express Files PUA:

Tip: To quit a process completely, choose the “Force Quit” option.

4. Click on the "Go" button again, but this time select Applications. Another way is with the ⇧+⌘+A buttons.

5. In the Applications menu, look for any suspicious app or an app with a name, similar or identical to Express Files PUA. If you find it, right-click on the app and select “Move to Trash”.

6: Select Accounts, after which click on the Login Items preference. Your Mac will then show you a list of items that start automatically when you log in. Look for any suspicious apps identical or similar to Express Files PUA. Check the app you want to stop from running automatically and then select on the Minus (“-“) icon to hide it.

7: Remove any left-over files that might be related to this threat manually by following the sub-steps below:

Go to Finder.
In the search bar type the name of the app that you want to remove.
Above the search bar change the two drop down menus to “System Files” and “Are Included” so that you can see all of the files associated with the application you want to remove. Bear in mind that some of the files may not be related to the app so be very careful which files you delete.
If all of the files are related, hold the ⌘+A buttons to select them and then drive them to “Trash”.

In case you cannot remove Express Files PUA via Step 1 above:

In case you cannot find the virus files and objects in your Applications or other places we have shown above, you can manually look for them in the Libraries of your Mac. But before doing this, please read the disclaimer below:

Disclaimer! If you are about to tamper with Library files on Mac, be sure to know the name of the virus file, because if you delete the wrong file, it may cause irreversible damage to your MacOS. Continue on your own responsibility!

1: Click on "Go" and Then "Go to Folder" as shown underneath:

2: Type in "/Library/LauchAgents/" and click Ok:

3: Delete all of the virus files that have similar or the same name as Express Files PUA. If you believe there is no such file, do not delete anything.

You can repeat the same procedure with the following other Library directories:

→ ~/Library/LaunchAgents
/Library/LaunchDaemons

Tip: ~ is there on purpose, because it leads to more LaunchAgents.

Step 2: Scan for and remove Express Files PUA files from your Mac

When you are facing problems on your Mac as a result of unwanted scripts and programs such as Express Files PUA, the recommended way of eliminating the threat is by using an anti-malware program. SpyHunter for Mac offers advanced security features along with other modules that will improve your Mac’s security and protect it in the future.

Click the button below below to download SpyHunter for Mac and scan for Express Files PUA:

Download

SpyHunter for Mac

Windows Mac OS X Google Chrome Mozilla Firefox Microsoft Edge Safari Internet Explorer Stop Push Pop-ups

Remove Express Files PUA from Google Chrome.

Step 1: Start Google Chrome and open the drop menu

Step 2: Move the cursor over "Tools" and then from the extended menu choose "Extensions"

Step 3: From the opened "Extensions" menu locate the unwanted extension and click on its "Remove" button.

Step 4: After the extension is removed, restart Google Chrome by closing it from the red "X" button at the top right corner and start it again.

Windows Mac OS X Google Chrome Mozilla Firefox Microsoft Edge Safari Internet Explorer Stop Push Pop-ups

Erase Express Files PUA from Mozilla Firefox.

Step 1: Start Mozilla Firefox. Open the menu window

Step 2: Select the "Add-ons" icon from the menu.

Step 3: Select the unwanted extension and click "Remove"

Step 4: After the extension is removed, restart Mozilla Firefox by closing it from the red "X" button at the top right corner and start it again.

Windows Mac OS X Google Chrome Mozilla Firefox Microsoft Edge Safari Internet Explorer Stop Push Pop-ups

Uninstall Express Files PUA from Microsoft Edge.

Step 1: Start Edge browser.

Step 2: Open the drop menu by clicking on the icon at the top right corner.

Step 3: From the drop menu select "Extensions".

Step 4: Choose the suspected malicious extension you want to remove and then click on the gear icon.

Step 5: Remove the malicious extension by scrolling down and then clicking on Uninstall.

Windows Mac OS X Google Chrome Mozilla Firefox Microsoft Edge Safari Internet Explorer Stop Push Pop-ups

Remove Express Files PUA from Safari.

Step 1: Start the Safari app.

Step 2: After hovering your mouse cursor to the top of the screen, click on the Safari text to open its drop down menu.

Step 3: From the menu, click on "Preferences".

Step 4: After that, select the 'Extensions' Tab.

Step 5: Click once on the extension you want to remove.

Step 6: Click 'Uninstall'.

A pop-up window will appear asking for confirmation to uninstall the extension. Select 'Uninstall' again, and the Express Files PUA will be removed.

How to Reset Safari
IMPORTANT: Before resetting Safari make sure you back up all your saved passwords within the browser in case you forget them.

Start Safari and then click on the gear leaver icon.

Click the Reset Safari button and you will reset the browser.

Windows Mac OS X Google Chrome Mozilla Firefox Microsoft Edge Safari Internet Explorer Stop Push Pop-ups

Eliminate Express Files PUA from Internet Explorer.

Step 1: Start Internet Explorer.

Step 2: Click on the gear icon labeled 'Tools' to open the drop menu and select 'Manage Add-ons'

Step 3: In the 'Manage Add-ons' window.

Step 4: Select the extension you want to remove and then click 'Disable'. A pop-up window will appear to inform you that you are about to disable the selected extension, and some more add-ons might be disabled as well. Leave all the boxes checked, and click 'Disable'.

Step 5: After the unwanted extension has been removed, restart Internet Explorer by closing it from the red 'X' button located at the top right corner and start it again.