Adware (or advertising software) is the term used for various pop-up advertisements that show up on your computer or mobile device. Adware has the potential to become malicious and harm your device by slowing it down, hijacking your browser and installing viruses and/or spyware.
Adware in cybersecurity refers to a type of malware that displays unwanted advertisements on your computer or device. Adware is commonly activated unknowingly when users are trying to install legitimate applications that adware is bundled with.
While sometimes, adware can be safe, some pop-up windows intend to not only display advertisements but also collect data and information in order to target you with customised adverts. In these cases, adware can direct you to malicious websites and infected pages through various advert links, putting you at risk of computer viruses.
The most common way to recognise adware is the appearance of pop-up advertisements and applications that you are unfamiliar with and on browsers where they had not been displayed before.
In some cases, adware attacks can also cause changes to your browser, below are a few things to look out for:
Adware commonly appears as irritating pop-up windows and banners; however, it can act in many different ways. Below are some of the most common types of adware:
While adware can be removed, we would recommend working to stop adware before it becomes an issue. There are several ways of accomplishing this, the first of which is to install comprehensive antivirus and antimalware software. You will also need to check for and apply regular updates to fight any emerging adware threats.
In addition to your antivirus software, follow the below tips to stop adware in its tracks:
Now we know more about what adware is, let’s look at how adware removal works. As well as ensuring you are wary of pop-ups and banners that could lead to malicious websites, it is important to protect your device before adware becomes a threat. In cases where Adware attacks have already affected your device, an antivirus program is recommended for secure removal. There are many free tools for removing adware from your device however, not all of these are safe and viable options.
Installing antivirus software will help prevent any viruses that use adware to attack your computer, and provide a safe removal option. If you have an antivirus program installed – be sure to back up your files and data before beginning a scan to remove any potential adware already installed on your device.
Powerful, multilayered protection to encrypt sensitive data, manage passwords easily, secure online transactions and more. A user-friendly solution for enhanced privacy online. Secures Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices.
