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What’s clip.exe (Clip - copies the data into clipboard)? Is it safe or a virus?

The `clip.exe` utility in Microsoft Windows is a command-line tool that captures output from commands or text files and sends it directly to the clipboard. It allows users to copy text or data that can later be pasted into other applications, without manually selecting and copying. For example, the output of a command like `dir | clip` would copy the directory listing to the clipboard instead of displaying it in the Command Prompt. Similarly, text files can be piped to the clipboard using this tool. `clip.exe` simplifies transferring information between the command line and other Windows applications.

Researched by Carl @ SpyShelter Labs

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More about clip.exe on WINDOWS

Who makes clip.exe (Clip - copies the data into clipboard)?

We’ve found Microsoft Windows should be the publisher of clip.exe.

How do we know? Our SpyShelter cybersecurity labs focuses on monitoring different types of Windows PC executables and their behaviors for our popular SpyShelter Antispyware software. Learn more about us, and how our cybersecurity team studies Windows PC executables/processes.

What does it mean if someone is the publisher of a PC .exe (executable or process)?

The publisher of an executable is the entity responsible for its distribution and authenticity. Most processes/executables on your PC should be signed. The signature on the executable should have been verified through a third party whose job it is to make sure the entity is who it says it is. Find an unsigned executable? You should consider scanning any completely unsigned .exe on your PC.

Last updated: March 14, 2025

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Why should you trust us?

Our team at SpyShelter has been studying Windows PC executables for over 15 years, to help fight against spyware, malware, and other threats. SpyShelter has been featured in publications like The Register, PC Magazine, and many others. Now we’re working to share free, actionable, and easy to understand information about Windows executables (processes) with the world, to help as many people as possible keep their devices safe. Learn more about us on our "About SpyShelter” page.

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