pup.optional.asearch.a - is it malware, should I remove it?

[AndrewMont]

This has been repeatedly showing up, I don't whether it's a false positive or something to worry about. I have selected for it to be quarantined and removed several times and it always shows back up. I've searched online and the forums but cant find anything about specifically 'pup.optional.asearch' its path file is C:\Users\'User'\AppData\Local\Google\Chrome\User Data\Default\Preferences 

 

It does seem like its just a mistake as it's my google chrome preferences file but want to be sure. 

[Firefox]

Hello and Welcome to Malwarebytes

To make certain your not infected, feel free to follow the instructions below to receive free, one-on-one expert assistance in checking your system and clearing out any infections and correcting any damage done by the malware.

Please see the following pinned topic which has information on how to get help with this: Available Assistance for Possibly Infected Computers

Thank you

[AndrewMont]

Hello and Welcome to Malwarebytes

To make certain your not infected, feel free to follow the instructions below to receive free, one-on-one expert assistance in checking your system and clearing out any infections and correcting any damage done by the malware.

Please see the following pinned topic which has information on how to get help with this: Available Assistance for Possibly Infected Computers

Thank you

 

I appreciate the help and will follow the instructions (I found someone else who is having the same problem https://forums.malwarebytes.org/index.php?showtopic=149971)

I was wondering however if you could tell me if it is definitely malware though and not just a false positive? Or would I only know if it is once I go through the process?

[1PW]

Hello AndrewMont:

The definitive answer would only be possible after some troubleshooting which isn't permitted in this sub-forum and since you report that this is persistent, you need to have the root cause determined and corrected.

I suggest you follow Firefox's excellent advice above.

Thank you.