Alternative Speccy Reddit: CCleaner's New Emergency Updater Feature Raises Concerns

CCleaner, a popular cleaning and maintenance tool, has recently rolled out its latest version with some significant changes. One of the most notable additions is the Emergency Updater feature, which comes with its own executable file - CCUpdate.exe - and a new scheduled task called CCleaner Updater.

The new version of CCleaner ships with two major changes: the Emergency Updater feature and new default cleaning rules for some programs. The Emergency Updater feature allows CCleaner to connect daily to Piriform, the company behind CCleaner, and receive automatic software updates. This move has raised concerns among users who value control over their software updates.

Traditionally, the free version of CCleaner did not automatically update itself, giving users the option to manually download and install new versions when they became available. However, with the latest release, the free version is now connecting daily to Piriform to receive automatic software updates. This change may be a concern for users who want to decide their own updating schedule, especially after CCleaner's recent malware troubles.

Fortunately, there are ways for users to disable the updating task in the Task Scheduler and maintain control over their software updates. Additionally, using the portable version of CCleaner might be a safer route if you want to avoid auto-updating.

It's essential to note that even with these options available, it's still crucial to exercise caution when downloading and installing new software updates. Always ensure that you're getting updates from legitimate sources and take the time to review any changes before installing them.

In conclusion, CCleaner's new Emergency Updater feature raises valid concerns among users who value control over their software updates. While there are ways to disable the updating task or use a portable version of CCleaner, it's crucial to remain vigilant when it comes to software updates and take steps to maintain your online security.

References:

* Martin Brinkmann's article on the new Emergency Updater feature

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