Users often report high CPU, RAM, or disk usage when this process runs, even if no query appears to be actively refreshing in the foreground. 2. Malicious and Unwanted Software
Employ evasion tactics like checking for debuggers or sleeping to bypass antivirus scans. loader.exe
If the file is located in C:\Users\USERNAME\AppData\Local\ or similar user profile folders, it is likely malicious or unwanted. 3. Other Legitimate Uses Users often report high CPU, RAM, or disk
It is frequently associated with "Loaders" that deliver payloads like the RedLine Stealer , which targets cryptocurrency wallets, browser passwords, and system information. Behavior: Malicious versions often: Record keyboard and mouse inputs (keylogging). Inject code into other processes. which targets cryptocurrency wallets
Communicate with Command & Control (C2) servers to download further threats.
The most common legitimate version is . This is a core component of Power Query used in Microsoft Excel and Power BI.