Edge Adware Helper is a Potentially Unwanted Program with Adware and Browser Hijacking Capabilities
Edge Adware Helper is a potentially unwanted program with adware and browser hijacking capabilities. Why are potentially unwanted programs with adware and browser hijacking capabilities a threat, and how can you remove them from your PC?
Potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) with adware and browser hijacking capabilities, such as Edge Adware Helper, can be harmful for several reasons:
Intrusive Advertisements
PUPs with adware functionality inundate users with intrusive and unwanted advertisements. These ads can disrupt your browsing experience and lead to potentially harmful content.
Unwanted Browser Modifications
PUPs with browser hijacking capabilities modify your browser settings. They can change your default search engine, homepage, and new tab page, redirecting your searches to unwanted websites and manipulating your online activities.
Privacy and Security Risks
PUPs often collect your browsing habits and personally non-identifiable information, which they may share with third parties for targeted advertising or other purposes. This may compromise your privacy and expose you to targeted advertisements that may lead to online scams, fake surveys, and other threats.
Annoying Redirects
PUPs with browser hijacking capabilities can redirect you to unsafe websites that host undesirable software, phishing attempts, or other untrustworthy content. This may put your system at risk of being compromised.
To remove PUPs with adware and browser hijacking capabilities from your PC, follow these steps:
Uninstall Suspicious Programs
Go to your computer’s Control Panel (Windows) and uninstall any recently installed programs that you suspect may be associated with the PUP.
Remove Suspicious Browser Extensions
Open your web browser’s settings or extensions/add-ons management section. Remove any unfamiliar or suspicious extensions that could be related to the PUP.
Reset Browser Settings
In your browser settings, find the option to reset or restore the browser to its default settings. This action will undo any unauthorized changes made by the PUP and remove saved data like cookies and cache. Save your bookmarks and other stored custom data because a full browser reset will delete them all.
Scan Your Computer for Threats
Use reputable anti-malware software to perform a full system scan. Allow the software to detect and remove remaining PUPs or associated files.
Update and Secure Your System
Keep your operating system, web browsers, and security software up to date with the latest patches and updates. Regularly scan your system for threats and use a reliable firewall for enhanced protection.
It’s crucial to exercise caution when downloading or installing software and avoid visiting suspicious or untrustworthy websites. Additionally, practicing safe browsing habits, such as not clicking on suspicious ads or links, can help prevent the installation of PUPs with adware and browser hijacking capabilities.
If you are still having trouble, consider contacting remote technical support options.
