What is InstallFlashPlayer.exe? Should I remove it?

InstallFlashPlayer.exe is a software component for Adobe Flash Player, although might be malicious when exploited by cybercriminals

InstallFlashPlayer.exe is an executable which is responsible for the installation of uninstallation of the Adobe Flash Player – a free application that is used for playing audio and video on the Adobe Flash platform. Unfortunately, Adobe products, like Flash or Reader are known to be exploited by cybercriminals by employing vulnerabilities, as well as incorporating the name of legitimate software to inject malicious executables. Therefore, users who see the InstallFlashPlayer.exe process running should take extreme caution, as malware can be behind it.

InstallFlashPlayer.exe should be located in C:\Windows folder and the known size of the file 3.8MB or 13.2MB. The file is not an essential component of the Windows operating system and could be eliminated if it is causing any problems. However, users who want to use the application should not remove InstallFlashPlayer.exe during its operation.

Adobe Systems is continually monitoring the found vulnerabilities and patch them as quickly as possible. However, it is well known that a lot of users are not in the rush of updating their computers on time, hence the immense infection rate. 

Fake updates are one of the most prevalent distribution techniques of such threats like XMRig cryptominer or ZeroAccess trojan. While these threats are extremely dangerous, users might not notice them at all. The lack of infection signs and symptoms ensures that InstallFlashPlayer.exe malware will keep running in the background without users' realizing.

Therefore, one of the best ways to protect yourself from malware is to employ security software that could prevent malicious executables from entering the targeted machine. We suggest using such programs as SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes, although any other reputable anti-malware should be able to stop most prominent threats like InstallFlashPlayer.exe malware. Additionally, we recommend using FortectIntego after virus elimination to avoid Windows reinstallation process due to damaged system components.

Finally, nowadays, users don't really need Adobe Flash Player to be installed on their systems. The technology is outdated and full of flaws – easily abusable by cybercriminals. Therefore, unless you are planning on playing flash games online, uninstall InstallFlashPlayer.exe.

In case you decide you need Adobe Flash, make sure it does not run automatically on your browser – set it to click-to-run option.

Malware can be avoided by being cautious online

Many users still think that malware enters their machines for no reason after hackers perform certain tricks. While the initiation of the latter group is there, the final trigger is always the user, however. Therefore, there are several methods that could help you to protect yourself from cryptominers, trojans, ransomware, and other threats. 

Following the steps that you must undertake in order to reduce the risk of malware infection to a minimum:

• Use reputable anti-malware software;
• Patch your software and the operating system as soon as updates are released;
• Go to the official website to download Adobe Flash Updates and do not trust pop-ups – they might look legitimate;
• Set Adobe Flash to run only when allowed;
• Do not trust links or redirects – check the address bar and other phishing signs;
• Do not open spam emails casually, especially when the attachment is asking you to enable macro function.

Get rid of InstallFlashPlayer.exe in case the executable is malicious

InstallFlashPlayer.exe removal is needed when it is infected, replaced or duplicated by malware. Eliminating the .exe file itself will not fix the problem, as malware's payload will remain embedded on the system. Therefore, you should rely on security solutions that can help you to remove InstallFlashPlayer.exe virus entirely.

Some malware, such as rootkits, is extremely hard to get rid of. In such a case, you should launch the security application in Safe Mode with Networking which would temporarily prevent the virus from functioning. Additionally, you should run FortectIntego to repair the damage done by InstallFlashPlayer.exe malware, such as repairing Windows Registry and other settings.