Search Protect by Conduit

This program showed up on my computer located in the task bar. The installation of this malware was not detected by Avast nor was it detected by MalwareBytes that I have installed.
However I did find the program folder on my “C” drive and did a scan with Avast and the result said no virus or malware was found. Additional scan with MalwareBytes did detect numerous “PUP” type viruses that the folder contained.
Upon this discovery & doing some online investigation, I am happy I did not try to just “uninstall” the malware as it can really foul up the boot process & not give access to windows.
Further research at “Bleeping Computers” I downloaded a scanner program called “JRT.EXE” which removed the malware entirely.

My question is this: WHY DID NOT AVAST DETECT THIS MALWARE PROGRAM PREVIOUS TO IT’S INSTALLATION???
DID I WASTE MY MONEY ON AVAST???

It is not malware but a pup
PUP = not virus / Possible Unwanted Program …usually crap that comes bundled with freeware downloads

avast pup scan is default off …exept for in boot scan…so turn it on if you want pup detection

Malwarebytes usually removes this crap
https://helpdesk.malwarebytes.org/entries/23482988-What-are-the-PUP-detections-are-they-threats-and-should-they-be-deleted-

PUP is explained a million times here… search forum for conduit

If you need removal help follow logs guide at top in this forum section http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=53253.0

Further research at "Bleeping Computers" I downloaded a scanner program called "JRT.EXE" which removed the malware entirely.
name of that tool say it all. JRT = [b]Junkware Removal Tool[/b]
Junkware Removal Tool is a security utility that searches for and removes common adware, toolbars, and[b] potentially unwanted programs (PUPs)[/b] from your computer. A common tactics among freeware publishers is to offer their products for free, but bundle them with PUPs in order to earn revenue. This tool will help you remove these types of programs.