What is Wtsapi32.dll? Should I remove it?
Wtsapi32.dll is the file possibly used for dangerous activities
Wtsapi32.dll is the file that is generally a component of the Windows operating system. However, this is the DLL file that raises many questions to users when it is missing and triggering other errors. Researches state that this is the issue related to spyware and particular method of DLL hijacking. The attack is used to exploit the Windows search engine and load algorithms enabling the attacker to inject malicious code into an application via disk manipulation. Adding a particular type of DLL file on the machine will cause that vulnerable program to run malicious files and trigger processes. This method has become a popular malicious distribution technique that triggers damage very often.
Name | Wtsapi32.dll |
---|---|
Type | DLL file |
Issues | The file appears missing or causes different errors and the system issues |
Distribution | These files typically get automatically installed, but malicious data can be delivered via email or malicious sites |
Elimination needed? | You need to run a tool like an anti-malware app to see if the file is malicious or dangerous before you proceed with full elimination |
System fix | Run a tool like FortectIntego to find damage after the Wtsapi32.dll removal |
Originally, Wtsapi32.dll file is a safe file that plays an important role in computer’s system. It is used during the launch of Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome browser. However, it seems that developers of Youndoo hijacker decided to step up their game and use a technique known as DLL hijacking to make Youndoo.com site appear in user’s web browsers every time the user opens them.
For this, Youndoo redirect virus places a fake version of Wtsapi32.dll in Chrome and Firefox applications’ folders. Once the victim double-clicks on the executable file of one of these web browsers, the browser runs the fake DLL file instead of the original one, since Windows checks the same folder that stores the executable file first and attempts to find requisite DLL files here.
The Wtsapi32.dll file reads HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\MessageGet “hp” (homepage) Registry value. The URL that this Registry value holds is going to be opened in victim’s web browser. The victim can change this registry value to any other preferred URL to force the browser to load it on the startup. But these alterations in the registry are not recommended, so you should rely on tools designed for this like FortectIntego.
It is possible that this file is not affecting your device. However, we recommend you to remove Wtsapi32.dll files from affected browsers’ folders entirely. Especially if you experience any issues related to this and can check the security of the PC with AV tools that indicate dangerous mater of the DLL. To completely undo Youndoo hijack, we suggest scanning the entire computer system using a decent spyware/malware removal tool, for instance, SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes.
Distribution methods of possibly dangerous file
Considering that developers of browser hijackers used to promote particular web search engines by distributing suspicious browser add-ons or applications that change browser’s homepage address (such programs spread using software bundling technique), which could be located and removed rather easily even by inexperienced computer users, this new technique complicates the Youndoo.com removal process.
Therefore, if you cannot remove Youndoo.com or another suspicious website set as homepage in your browser by deleting suspicious applications and extensions from your system, there is a great chance that DLL hijacking technique was used to embed that URL in your web browser. We advise you to be careful when installing free software from the Internet and check Advanced or Custom installation settings to see if there are any suspicious programs bundled with it. If you see any, deselect them.
Wtsapi32.dll removal tips
We strongly recommend you to remove Wtsapi32.dll using a good anti-malware software like SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes. You need a reliable AV detection engine because such a program like malicious DLL hijack possibly spreads along with other questionable applications.
The best way to detect and remove them all is to let an automatic malware removal software detect them all. Wtsapi32.dll removal can be difficult when particular settings get altered and the system gets damaged. To find and fix possible issues run FortectIntego.