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Learn how to protect your Windows PC from malware and other threats.Application Control
Control your PC apps and their behaviors.What’s that .exe?
Is that executable safe, or a threat?SpyShelter PC Protection
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Learn how to prevent unauthorized Screenshots.Executable Directory
Our ultimate directory of Windows PC executables.Crashpad_handler.exe by Proton AG is a legitimate component of Proton VPN or Proton software that is responsible for crash reporting and diagnostics. Its primary function is to collect data on application crashes or malfunctions and send this information to Proton AG for analysis. This helps developers identify and address issues, ensuring improved stability and performance for users. The process runs in the background and does not affect regular usage. It is a standard tool used by many software companies to maintain reliability and improve user experience while adhering to privacy-focused principles, especially in the case of Proton, known for its privacy-first services.
Below are 4 simple steps you can take to see if the crashpad_handler.exe process is safe or malware.
Researched by Carl @ SpyShelter Labs
A Trojan is a harmful software that pretends to be a legitimate program or file to deceive users into downloading it. It can steal personal information, damage files, or give hackers control over the infected device.
Download SpyShelter to see detailed safety information about every .exe on your PC.
Check your PC for threatsWe’ve found Proton AG should be the publisher of crashpad_handler.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.
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.
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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