If you are using Microsoft Office 365 ProPlus, you may have noticed a file called OCHelper.dll in your system. What is this file and what does it do? Is it safe to keep or should you remove it? In this blog post, we will answer these questions and more.
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What is OCHelper.dll?
OCHelper.dll is a dynamic link library file that is part of the Office Click-to-Run (C2R) Client, which is a component of Microsoft Office 365 ProPlus. The C2R Client is responsible for downloading, installing, updating, and repairing Office products from the cloud. OCHelper.dll is one of the files that helps the C2R Client perform these tasks.
Should I Remove OCHelper.dll?
The short answer is no, you should not remove OCHelper.dll from your system. This file is essential for the proper functioning of the C2R Client and therefore of your Office products. Removing or deleting this file may cause errors or problems with your Office applications. You may also lose some features or functionality that depend on the C2R Client.
Is OCHelper.dll malware?
The genuine OCHelper.dll file is not malware and does not pose any threat to your system. However, some malware may disguise themselves as OCHelper.dll or other files related to the C2R Client. To make sure that you have the authentic OCHelper.dll file, you can check its location and properties.
The genuine OCHelper.dll file is located in C:\Program Files\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\ClickToRun. You can also right-click on the file and select Properties to view its details. The original OCHelper.dll file should have the following attributes:
File size: 1,016 KB
File version: 16.0.x.x (depending on your Office version)
Product name: Microsoft Office
Product version: 16.0.x.x (depending on your Office version)
Company name: Microsoft Corporation
Digital signature: Yes
If you find a file with a different location, size, version, product name, company name, or digital signature, it may be a malicious file and you should scan your system with Malwarebytes Free.
Conclusion
OCHelper.dll is a legitimate file that belongs to the Office C2R Client, which is a component of Microsoft Office 365 ProPlus. This file is important for the smooth operation of your Office products and you should not remove it from your system. However, you should also be aware of the possibility of malware masquerading as OCHelper.dll or other files related to the C2R Client. To verify the authenticity of this file, you can check its location and properties and compare them with the information provided in this blog post.
How to Stay Safe Online
Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:
Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.
It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.
Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.
Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.
Be careful when installing programs and apps.
Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."
Install an ad blocker.
Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.
Be careful what you download.
A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.
Be alert for people trying to trick you.
Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.
Back up your data.
Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.
Choose strong passwords.
Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.
Be careful where you click.
Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.
Don't use pirated software.
Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.
To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.
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Meet Stelian Pilici
Stelian leverages over a decade of cybersecurity expertise to lead malware analysis and removal, uncover scams, and educate people. His experience provides insightful analysis and valuable perspective.
