How to remove I-Record adware

I-Record is a video recorder that shows intrusive ads while browsing the web

I-Record adware may seem like your regular application designed for screen capture in various formats. The recording software is relatively common, and many users employ it to capture tutorials, video game footage, and other content. However, not all applications of this kind are harmless, so it's very important not to install a recorder that could compromise Windows security and increase the risks of other infections.

Besides allowing users to record their screens, I-Record also delivers pop-ups, in-text links, banners, and other types of intrusive advertisements and increases the chances of encountering phishing material while browsing the web. Likewise, the app is also distributed using suspicious methods – it can be downloaded from pirated software distributors or via misleading advertisements on various malicious sites. These two traits are the main reason I-Record is considered adware you should get rid of as soon as possible.

Adware distribution: how to avoid infections

As mentioned, I-Record adware is spread using suspicious distribution methods, although users may also install it themselves when looking for an app to record their screens.

It is vital to do some research before installing applications of questionable origins – user reviews and forum posts can be a great help when deciding whether or not the app is trustworthy. Also, avoiding dubious distribution channels such as those that spread software cracks is mandatory – malware infection can be imminent when downloading dangerous installers.

When dealing with third-party software distribution websites that are not inherently malicious, always assume that installers would offer you additional software at some point. Therefore, choose Advanced or Custom settings instead of Recommended/Quick ones and check every step of the installation carefully – remove marks from pre-ticked checkboxes, read the fine print, and do not accidentally click the “Accept offer” or similar button, etc.

Alternatively, people might install the app after being misled by a fake advertisement, e.g., a fake Flash Player installer. The misleading software installation prompts that claim something is outdated or missing are always bad news, so please stay away from those. Flash Player, for example, is no longer supported by its developer and has been discontinued. In general, when it comes to software updates, always visit official websites and download updates from there.

Infection symptoms

While initially, it may seem that I-Record is just a simple screen recorder that allows choosing video format, framerate, and other parameters, it is much more than that. Those affected would start immediately noticing that their browsers would lead them to dubious websites and show more ads on websites that they visit.

Additional symptoms include multiple files of the software dropped into the Program Files and AppData folders and an “I-Record app :copyright: 2022” and “I-Record tech Copyright :copyright: All rights reserved” process running in the background. Note that the installer and the app are detected by numerous security vendors under names such as “Trojan/Win.Generic.R442534,” “Spyware.FFDroider,” “Trojan-Banker.Win32.Passteal.ph,” “Trojan:Win32/Floxif.AV!MTB,” and others.^[1]

I-Record adware removal explained

Whenever adware is installed on the system level instead of the browser, its capabilities are drastically enhanced. For example, the virus may start making background connections to remote servers, generating advertising revenue in the process. This could start affecting internet speed and even compromise users' privacy.

While it may not be immediately evident that I-Record adware is causing intrusive ads and redirects, it is vital to find the culprit and eliminate it at once. If you aren't quite sure how to perform manual elimination, we recommend instead relying on automatic solutions and scanning the system with SpyHunterCombo Cleaner, MalwarebytesMalwarebytes, or another reputable security software.

1. Get rid of the main application

To uninstall applications from a Windows system, you have to access Control Panel and then reach the Programs and Features section as follows:

Windows 10/8

• Enter Control Panel into the Windows search box and hit Enter or click on the search result.
• Under Programs, select Uninstall a program.
• From the list, find the entry of the suspicious program.
• Right-click on the application and select Uninstall.
• If User Account Control shows up, click Yes.
• Wait till uninstallation process is complete and click OK.

Windows 7/XP

1. Click on Windows Start > Control Panel located on the right pane (if you are Windows XP user, click on Add/Remove Programs).
2. In Control Panel, select Programs > Uninstall a program.
3. Pick the unwanted application by clicking on it once.
4. At the top, click Uninstall/Change.
5. In the confirmation prompt, pick Yes.
6. Click OK once the removal process is finished.

2. Clean your browsers

Once the main application is deleted, you should also make sure that browser caches^[2] are cleared. Adware is known to rack user data with the help of cookies^[3] and similar technologies, which are stored locally. Even after the elimination of the unwanted application, these components may remain and continue their activities. Therefore, ensure you either use the FortectIntego maintenance utility or follow the manual steps to thoroughly remove browser caches.

Google Chrome

• Click on Menu and pick Settings.
• Under Privacy and security, select Clear browsing data.
• Select Browsing history, Cookies and other site data, as well as Cached images and files.
• Click Clear data.

Mozilla Firefox

• Click Menu and pick Options.
• Go to Privacy & Security section.
• Scroll down to locate Cookies and Site Data.
• Click on Clear Data…
• Select Cookies and Site Data, as well as Cached Web Content, and press Clear.

MS Edge (Chromium)

• Click on Menu and go to Settings.
• Select Privacy and services.
• Under Clear browsing data, pick Choose what to clear.
• Under Time range, pick All time.
• Select Clear now.

Internet Explorer

1. Press on the Gear icon and select Internet Options.
2. Under Browsing history, click Delete…
3. Select relevant fields and press Delete.