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Intruder: KeenValue
Description:
KeenValue is advertising software that tracks:
- Web sites/pages viewed
- The amount of time spent at some Web sites
- Response to the Advertisements displayed
- Standard web log information including IP address and system settings
- What software is on your personal computer
- Your first and last name, country, and five digit ZIP code
- Your usage characteristics and preferences
This information is used to served targeted advertisements delivered via pop-up windows, pop-up slider windows, embedded ads, and desktop icons and installation files that are linked to other products and services and placed on your computer.
Method of Infection:
KeenValue is installed with downloads from myfreecursors.com thunderdownloads.com, and crazymates.com. According to their own site, “KeenValue is bundled with many of the Webs most popular downloaded software including: desktop playmates, MP3 Players, screensavers, online games, shopping tools, and etc.” One popular example is the PowerSearch Toolbar distributed by InfoBeat.
Privacy Issues:
In addition to the items listed above that KeenValue tracks, their privacy policy states KeenValue may read the contents of third-party cookies stored on your machine, and may also install “certain rich media player applications, browser plug-ins, virtual machines, and runtime environments(collectively “Enhancement Technologies”)” without your knowledge. Uninstalling KEENVALUE does not uninstall any “Enhancement Technologies.”
Removal Process:
Uninstallation of KeenValue via the “Add/Remove Programs” will not remove any of the “Enhancement Technologies” tied to the software. Because these items can change without notice to the end user, an anti-spyware program is recommended to completely remove all files associated with KeenValue.