How does adware work?
Adware is a software program that is used to display advertisements on a computer. The advertisements are typically displayed in the form of pop-up windows or web banners. Adware is usually installed on a computer without the user’s knowledge or consent.
Adware programs are typically bundled with other free software programs that can be downloaded from the Internet. When a user installs the free software, the adware program is also installed. Adware programs are also sometimes included in email attachments and files that are downloaded from untrustworthy websites.
Adware programs collect information about a user’s online activities. The information collected can include the websites that a user visits, the length of time spent on each website, and the search terms that a user enters into a search engine. The information is then used to target advertisements to the user.
Adware programs can be difficult to remove from a computer. They often install themselves in hidden directories and files, and they can re-install themselves after being removed. Some adware programs can also make changes to a user’s web browser settings that make it difficult to disable or remove the program..Click for source
How can you protect yourself from adware?
Most people think of adware as annoying pop-up ads. But adware can be much more dangerous than that. Adware can track your online activity and even collect personal information like your name, address, and credit card number.
Here are some tips to protect yourself from adware:
1. Keep your operating system and software up to date. Install all security updates as soon as they are available.
2. Use an antivirus program and keep it up to date.
3. Don’t click on pop-up ads, even if they look legitimate.
4. Be cautious about downloading free software from the internet. Make sure you trust the source before you install anything.
5. Be careful about what you click on when you’re online. Don’t click on links or open attachments from unknown sources.
6. Use a pop-up blocker.
7. Keep your personal information to yourself. Don’t enter your personal information on websites unless you are sure they are secure.
8. Use caution when providing personal information to websites. Make sure the website is using HTTPS before you enter any sensitive information.
9. Read the privacy policy of any website before you provide any personal information.
10. Install ad-blocking software.
11. Be smart about your online activity. Don’t do anything that would put your personal information at risk.
12. Keep your computer clean. Delete temporary files and internet cookies on a regular basis.
13. Be aware of the signs that your computer has been infected with adware. These can include unusual pop-up ads, slower than usual internet performance, and new toolbar icons that you didn’t add.
If you think your computer has been infected with adware, you can run a scan with your antivirus program. You can also use a free adware removal program like AdwCleaner.
Visit malwarezero.org to learn more about adware. Disclaimer: We used this website as a reference for this blog post.
