What is fake client.exe? Should I remove it?

Fake client.exe might be a menace of a troublesome malware threat

Fake client.exe is an executable file used by malware developers. Depending on its behavior, you might be dealing either with a browser hijacker, adware or more serious threat. If you are wondering whether the client.exe running in the system is legitimate or not, scan it with an anti-virus tool. In addition, you may check client.exe process in the Task Manager. If it consumes over 30% of CPU memory resources, it is high time you took action. 

Determining the type of infection

Detection of malicious client.exe is quite troublesome as the process cannot be reversed when the file is executed. Note that you may suspect the malicious origin of the file if it is not wrapped in the folder of a spam email attachment. If you download programs from websites with a surplus of ads and fake download buttons, downloading client.exe should evoke suspicion.

If client.exe is launched, an error message “Windows cannot find C:\Program Files(x86)\Search extensions\Client.exe” appears in front of the black screen C:\WINDOWS\System32\cmd.exe, RocketTab adware has settled on the device.^[1] 

The latter can be found on its official site. However, due to security flaws, the tendency to collect information about its users, and aggressive promotion techniques, IT experts suggest eliminating it. Thus, besides terminating its task in the Task Manager, scan the computer with malware elimination tools, e.g. FortectIntego or Malwarebytes. After that, the command should no longer appear in background processes.

A banking trojan^[2] operating might also use the client.exe file for its purposes. This malware tries to wheedle out credit card details in a peculiar way. Note that it might imitate a tech support scam.^[3]

Note that the genuine Windows activation process requires you to enter a valid license key and not credit card details in some boot-mode windows. In addition, if you pay close attention to such a window, you will notice that either Windows or Microsoft logo is counterfeited or “pasted” on top of a fake window. 

If you suspect that client.exe is the wrong one, rebooting the system may only make matters worse. Instead, set up a boot-time scan with the anti-virus tool and restart the system afterward. In addition, you might make use of the Safe Mode. Once you activate it, launch the scan.

Elimination of fake client.exe file

If you have determined that client.exe has been wreaking havoc on your computer, consider the above-discussed aspects and apply proper termination methods. In case the file launches the error message, look for RocketTab extension or search.rockettab.com search engine in the browser.

Delete the extension and all its related web elements. Using a malware elimination utility might be a more comfortable solution. Reset the browser as well.

Furthermore, if client.exe is related to a trojan or a tech support scam, reboot the computer into Safe Mode, launch the cybersecurity tool and remove the threat along with the malicious file. After the scan finished, reboot the device and repeat the procedure.