Utilities

Is CCleaner Safe?

Owned by Piriform (Avast) • Last updated January 2026

📋 Short Answer:
CCleaner collects extensive user data and shares with third parties. Privacy-conscious users should consider alternatives.
PrivacyDefend Safety Score
4.0/10
Below Average
Data Collection
🔴 High
Encryption
🟡 Partial
Third-Party Sharing
🔴 Yes
Privacy Controls
🔴 Poor

📊 What Data Does CCleaner Collect?

CCleaner has high data collection practices. Here's what they collect:

This level of data collection is concerning for apps in the utilities category.

Why This Matters

The data CCleaner collects can be used for personalization, advertising, analytics, and may be shared with third parties. Understanding what's collected helps you make informed privacy decisions.

🔒 CCleaner Encryption & Security

Encryption Level: Partial

Encryption in transit and at rest. Not end-to-end encrypted.

What This Means For You

Your data is encrypted during transmission but may be accessible by the company on their servers.

🔗 Does CCleaner Share Your Data?

Third-Party Sharing: Yes

Shares data with advertising partners and third-party services. Part of Piriform (Avast)'s data ecosystem.

✅ What's Good

  • Partial encryption
  • Poor privacy controls

❌ Concerns

  • High data collection
  • Shares data with third parties
  • Part of larger data ecosystem

🔄 Safer Alternatives to CCleaner

Looking for more privacy-focused options? Consider these alternatives:

🛡️ Recommended Privacy Products

Enhance your privacy when using CCleaner with these tools:

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our privacy research.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is CCleaner safe to use in 2026?
CCleaner collects extensive user data and shares with third parties. Privacy-conscious users should consider alternatives.
What data does CCleaner collect about me?
CCleaner collects: device info, usage patterns, location. This is considered high data collection.
Does CCleaner sell my personal data?
Shares data with advertising partners and third-party services. Part of Piriform (Avast)'s data ecosystem.
Is CCleaner safe for kids?
We recommend parental supervision. Check our detailed analysis for kids.
What are safer alternatives to CCleaner?
Consider: . See our alternatives section above.

Last updated: January 2026 • Review by PrivacyDefend Research Team