Microsoft security software detects and removes this application, known as "Superfish", from Lenovo devices.

The version of Superfish pre-installed on some Lenovo devices is known to install a trusted root certificate for which the private key and password is publically known. This can make your PC vulnerable to spoofing attacks.

The certificate can be exploited using phishing or man-in-the-middle attacks to decrypt, modify, or spoof websites, such as banking, social media, or email websites. This could allow a malicious hacker to steal your user names, passwords, and confidential data. They could also carry out transactions without your knowledge, even when it seems like you have a secure browser connection to a website.

Find out more about how and why we identify unwanted software.