Is your computer doubling as a foreign agent? Well, it might not literally be working for a hostile foreign power, but it could be unknowingly harboring deceptive programs masquerading as helpful antivirus or cleanup tools that, in reality, only slow down or harm your computer.
What is a Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP)?
These programs, called PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) come in a wide variety of types; common ones include nuisance software like undesired browser plug-ins, or phony trialware that tries to frighten you into expensive “fixes.” One of the central purposes of PUP software is to lead unsuspecting users into fraud schemes.
What do PUPs do?
On the worst end of the PUP spectrum, there are PUPs that may attempt to install a proxy server on your PC, allowing surveillance of the internet traffic that goes through it. Some of these more malicious PUPs also can help hackers intercept sensitive data like banking records by installing insecure root certificates on your computer. These prevent browsers from detecting anything suspicious that would ordinarily prompt a security warning.
Are PUPs Malware?
PUPs are not always inherently malicious, but they can exhibit undesirable actions. These programs often come bundled with legitimate software, leaving users unaware of their presence. While not always harmful, they can slow down your system and compromise privacy. Regularly scanning for and removing PUPs can help maintain a cleaner, more secure computer environment
How do you Remove PUPs?
Many times, PUPs make their way onto your system by deceptively downloading along with a wanted program, a tactic called “piggybacking.” Now there is an easy way to uncover and remove many of these sneaky programs you may not even know you installed. With the launch of the new Deceptive and Unwanted Programs Remover within System Mechanic® 20, it’s easy to identify and eradicate PUPs such as:
- Annoying adware
- Scareware masquerading as legitimate software, such as an antivirus
- Fake trialware that doesn’t function as it claims to
- Dubious registry “cleaners”
- Nuisance software such as unwanted browser extensions and toolbars
- “Piggyback” installs
- Privacy-compromising software
- Browser hijackers
How does the Deceptive and Unwanted Programs Remover work?
- In System Mechanic, after you perform a system analysis (scan), if deceptive or potentially unwanted programs are found on your computer, a Recommendation will appear in the scan results.
- Click directly from the Dashboard Recommendation to open the Deceptive and Unwanted Programs Remover.
- Review and choose whether to remove any or all identified apps.
- System Mechanic will launch the uninstaller.
As malicious actors continue to create PUPs and fan them out across the web, you can rest assured that iolo’s database used to identify these troubling programs will keep expanding. To read more about what System Mechanic can do to keep your computers healthy, fast and safe, click here.
