Fast! Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP)

In the digital age, protecting your computer from unwanted software is essential. One such threat that has emerged is “Fast!”, a program marketed as a tool to enhance computer performance by optimizing CPU execution, accelerating applications, and reducing data transmission latency. However, despite these promises, Fast! has been identified as a Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP) due to its deceptive practices and adverse effects on user systems.

What Is Fast!?

Fast! is categorized as a PUP, often installed without user consent or knowledge. It claims to improve computer performance but typically leads to unwanted advertisements, browser changes, and degraded system functionality. Many users discover Fast! on their systems after downloading freeware or visiting unsecured websites.

Threat Summary

Name	Fast!
Type	Adware, Redirect, PUP
Short Description	Undesired program that accesses your computer without your knowledge, alters browser settings, and starts generating annoying ads.
Symptoms	Many pop-ups and other ads flood your preferred web browser. It becomes sluggish and sometimes unresponsive.
Distribution Method	Freeware Installations, Bundled Packages
Detection Tool	SpyHunter

How Does Fast! End Up on Your System?

Fast! is often bundled with other free software or acquired through visits to unsecured or malicious websites. During the installation of freeware, users might inadvertently agree to install additional programs like Fast! because of pre-checked options in the setup process.

What Does Fast! Do?

Once installed, Fast! alters browser settings to enable ad generation. These changes might include:

• Displaying numerous pop-ups and banners on websites you visit.
• Redirecting you to bogus websites with deceptive offers.
• Promoting the installation of other questionable programs such as browser hijackers, fake system optimizers, and toolbars.

Affected browsers include:

• Google Chrome
• Mozilla Firefox
• Internet Explorer
• Microsoft Edge
• Opera
• Safari

These ads not only disrupt your browsing experience but can also slow down your browser and make it unresponsive at times.

Risks Associated with Fast!

• Privacy Breaches: Fast! may track your online activities, including browsing history and search queries, to serve targeted ads.
• System Vulnerabilities: Redirects to malicious websites increase the risk of further infections.
• Performance Issues: An inundation of ads and pop-ups can significantly slow your computer and browsing experience.

How to Remove Fast! PUP

1. Uninstall Suspicious Programs
   • Windows:
     1. Press Windows Key + R and type appwiz.cpl, then hit Enter.
     2. Look for "Fast!" or any suspicious programs and uninstall them.
   • Mac:
     1. Open Finder and go to the "Applications" folder.
     2. Drag any suspicious applications to the Trash and empty it.
2. Remove Browser Extensions
   • Open each browser and navigate to the extensions or add-ons section.
   • Remove any extensions related to "Fast!" or other unknown sources.
3. Reset Browser Settings: Reset each browser to its default settings to remove any residual changes made by Fast!.
4. Delete Temporary Files: Use the Disk Cleanup utility or manually delete temporary files to ensure no remnants of the program remain.

Automated Removal with SpyHunter

For a more efficient and thorough removal process, consider using a reliable anti-malware tool like SpyHunter. Here’s how:

1. Download and Install SpyHunter: Download the appropriate version for your operating system.
2. Run a Full System Scan
   • Launch SpyHunter and initiate a comprehensive scan of your system.
   • The tool will detect Fast! and other potentially harmful software.
3. Quarantine and Remove Threats: Review the detected threats and quarantine or remove them as recommended by SpyHunter.
4. Reboot Your Computer: Restart your system to complete the removal process and ensure all threats are eliminated.

Preventing Future Infections

To avoid encountering PUPs like Fast! in the future, implement the following preventive measures:

1. Exercise Caution with Free Software
   • Always download software from reputable sources.
   • During installation, choose the "Custom" or "Advanced" option to uncheck any additional programs.
2. Install a Robust Anti-Malware Tool: Use reliable anti-malware software to monitor and protect your system in real time.
3. Keep Your Software Updated: Regularly update your operating system, browsers, and security software to patch vulnerabilities.
4. Avoid Clicking on Unknown Links: Refrain from clicking on suspicious links or ads, especially on unsecured websites.
5. Use a Secure Browser: Opt for browsers with built-in ad blockers and privacy-enhancing features.

Conclusion

Fast! might present itself as a performance-boosting tool, but it’s far from beneficial. By flooding browsers with ads, altering settings, and creating system vulnerabilities, Fast! compromises both your computer’s performance and your online security. Removing it promptly and adopting preventive measures are crucial steps in safeguarding your digital environment.

If you are still having trouble, consider contacting Virtual Technical Support.