I've been using the cleaner for years. Today I did the update to the new version and I always use the free version. After it was completed I found Avast VPN and took it out. I did not ask for that and I saw no indication of it going in. Before installing 3rd party software you need to ask permission. Don't just include it in the general permission.
George
Microsoft Engineer (Retired)
The Avast/AVG/Piriform offers during an update/install are pretty visible these days, and are not pre ticked.
I haven't seen Avast VPN offered during an install, but do recall seeing it on a pop-up offer in the Windows notification area, have you maybe clicked the wrong thing in that pop-up?
Here is the sort of thing that you get in the installer:
(But be careful of the Chrome offer, that one is pre-ticked and easy to miss if you are not paying attention).
For reference, the VPN offer is presented in the same fashion. English version below, but each of these is pretty much the same in all 31 languages in which they have been translated:
... and the suggested install of CCleaner's browser - for folks who like some built-in ad-blocking and find Chrome a bit too RAM-hungry. (Also available for free download via https://www.ccleaner.com/ccleaner/browser)
Most people are right-handed so it is easier for them to click the Accept button than the Decline button
(perhaps the should be placed the other way around)
To continue upon what Hazelnut has mentioned: The position of the accept and decline buttons are very deceptively placed, and I'd reckon they're fully aware of it.