LightningDownloader

Posted by Max Lehmann on June 29, 2015

What is LightningDownloader?

LightningDownloader claims to be an up-to-date download manager that provides a “comprehensive solution” for the daily download tasks and processes. However, our researchers at Anti-Spyware-101.com have found that it is a questionable application and categorized it as a potentially unwanted program (PUP). LightningDownloader can enter your system in a freeware bundle, which means that it may not be your only worry and malware infections might be on board, too. This app also collects information about your browsing habits, including personal, sensitive data, which in the wrong hands might be used to commit online frauds. No matter how innocent or useful this program seems, there are a number of potential risks you take if you keep it on your PC. Thus, we advise you to remove LightningDownloader from your system in order to keep your security and privacy intact. test test test Download Removal Tool100% FREE spyware scan and
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Where does LightningDownloader come from?

You can download LightningDownloader directly from its official website, lightningdownloader.info, but the problem is that it is also distributed in bundles. Most users usually do not read the EULA of the software package they are installing. It mentions the additional programs, tools that will be installed alongside with the desired program. That is how people get this PUP installed as well. However, the bundle might include malicious applications, too. If you are not careful during the installation process, you will have no choice but to delete LightningDownloader and all other threats that have sneaked onto your system.

Bundles that may contain malware applications are usually promoted on websites that are associated with online piracy, such as torrent and other file-sharing sites. It is enough to click on the wrong link or button and the infectious package is ready to install. If your system’s security is important for you, you should stay away from questionable P2P websites.

What does LightningDownloader do?

LightningDownloader is practically identical to EZDownloaderPro. It offers an “intuitive interface” for users to manage their download tasks and processes. The thing is you can find much better and more advanced tools for download management. You need to know that this application has a disturbing functionality, namely, it collects all kinds of information about your online activities, including what kind of websites you visit, how much time you spend there, what kind of ads you click on, and your geographical location. What’s more, it may also access and record sensitive information. This is what the EULA says regarding the potential use of the collected data:

Information (including information from or about pages of social media Websites User visits) is used by Software Provider, or shared with third parties for various purposes such as providing User with content such as targeted advertisements promotional and marketing material.

These targeted third-party ads should not be trusted because LightningDownloader does not take responsibility for the third-party websites you will be redirected to when you click on such an ad. There is always a risk that schemers might corrupt these ads by embedding links pointing to their scam-related websites. In order to protect yourself from these, we recommend that you remove LightningDownloader from your computer.

How do I remove LightningDownloader?

Fortunately, it is quite plain and simple to get rid of LightningDownloader. All you need to do is uninstall it via Control Panel. If you follow our guide below, you should be able to accomplish this in a few minutes, tops. Keep in mind that this app may not come alone, so you are better off running a full system check with a reliable online scanner to see if there are any application present that can pose a threat to your system. If so, you should install a trustworthy malware removal application to take care of all your security issues. In order to keep your system clean from infections, it is important to keep your security software updated and active. If you need any assistance, please leave us a comment below.