Semalt: Potentially Unwanted Programs And How To Avoid Them
In the course of this article, Julia Vashneva, the Semalt Senior Customer Success Manager, tells how unwanted programs affect your computer and how to avoid installing PUPs. It's clear from the name that unwanted programs are those programs, software or applications we don't want to install in our computers, phones, tablets and other devices. They get installed in your systems and can damage your files within minutes. There are two ways the crapware spread in your device. First of all, they are bundled by app developers and get installed in your system. Secondly, you download them unwillingly from the websites, and then they cause problems for you. The potentially unwanted programs get installed in your system themselves and steal your personal information without your knowledge.
Detecting PUPs
The potentially unwanted programs which are installed on your device in the form of toolbars and browsers are easy to recognize. However, the other types of programs cannot be identified and can damage your Windows Taskbar Manager to a great extent. Let me here tell you that the PUPs are either spyware or malware. They contain dialers and keyloggers that can infect your system. So, it is good to install an antivirus software as early as possible. If they prevent your installation, you should restart your computer or install another operating system. The potentially unwanted programs can slow down your device's function and can compromise your privacy.
Remove Potentially Unwanted Programs
To get rid of the potentially unwanted programs, you should open the browser settings and go to its options. The next step is to manage your add-ons, and that can be done on the basis of your browser. Let me here tell you that different browsers have different setting options. If you don't understand how to adjust the settings, it is better to seek the help of experts. In the meantime, you should avoid using external programs such as .NET and Visual C++ Distribution Framework. It is pivotal to remove those programs and all unnecessary apps from your device as early as possible.
Prevent PUPs from Installing
It is mandatory to prevent potentially unwanted programs from installing on your computer and mobile device. For this, you should go to the Express Method option and install an antivirus program as early as possible. You should always download freeware from the secure and authentic websites and go to the custom installation option. Here you should not blindly click the Next option. First of all, you should read its tips and tricks to have an idea of what is being offered. When the custom installation process is completed, the next step is to install a couple of antivirus programs safely.
A large number of hackers trick the victims through the Accept and Decline options. That is why you should never click on those buttons without your knowledge. We highly recommend you to read the software details and product features before clicking on the Installation option.
Conclusion
In the end, we would like to say that freeware products are genuinely good. But you should never install them from unknown or unfamiliar sources. Another trend that we have noticed is that some app and software developers launch their programs with third-party phishing ads. We recommend you to stay away from those products to ensure your online safety and security.