Adware: Definition, Types, Handling, and Prevention

Adware, which stands for advertising-supported software, is a type of malicious software that can pose significant risks to your devices.

Users may not always recognize the danger it presents, but it can lead to unwanted advertisements, intrusive pop-ups, and sometimes even more harmful activities like tracking user behavior or installing additional unwanted software.

Understanding adware is crucial for maintaining your device's security and performance. In this article, we will explore the definition of adware, the different types you might encounter, effective methods for handling it if it infects your device, and preventive measures you can take to protect yourself.

Definition of Adware

Adware, short for “advertising-supported software,” is a type of malicious software designed to display unwanted advertisements, usually through pop-ups or banner ads, on a user’s device.

It often installs itself without the consent of the user and frequently masquerades as legitimate software or gets bundled with other applications during installation (Farooq et al., 2024).

Adware generates revenue for its developers by presenting targeted ads directly on the user’s browser or device screens. While it is most commonly associated with computers, adware can also infiltrate mobile devices.

Depending on its form, adware can sometimes serve as an entry point for more severe types of malware and cyber threats.

Adware typically ends up on a user’s system under one of two circumstances:

Bundled installations: Users unknowingly install adware when they download free applications or programs. In such cases, developers exploit bundled software as a source of income by sneaking adware into the user's system.
Security vulnerabilities: Adware and other malicious programs exploit flaws in the user’s software or operating system to gain unauthorized access to the device.

Types of Adware

Adware can generally be classified into two categories: legitimate adware and malicious adware.

Legitimate Adware

This type of adware is installed with the user’s explicit consent. Users typically agree to download adware in exchange for some benefit—such as free software access or discounts—offered by the developer.

While legitimate adware is relatively less harmful, it is still considered intrusive since it floods the user interface with advertisements.

Malicious Adware

Malicious adware operates without the user's awareness or approval, often taking the form of browser hijackers.

These types of adware modify the browser settings without permission, changing the default homepage or search engine.

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This form of adware aggressively disrupts browsing experiences by displaying unwanted ads that can appear as pop-ups or pop-unders.

The intrusive advertising may trick the user into believing the ads are part of the website content they are visiting, but in reality, they are injected by the adware itself.

Signs of Adware Infection

Adware infections can cause noticeable changes in your system’s functionality or browsing experience. Here are some of the common symptoms indicating adware may be present on your device:

Advertisements appear in unusual places or on websites that normally don’t display ads.
You experience frequent pop-up and pop-under ads interrupting your browsing sessions.
Clicking on legitimate links redirects your browser to unrelated or suspicious websites.
Your browser crashes unexpectedly or operates slowly.
The browser homepage is altered without your consent.
New plugins, toolbars, or extensions appear on your browser without your knowledge.
Web pages you typically visit fail to load correctly.
Unwanted software installs itself on your device automatically.

What to Do When Adware Infects Your Device

Adware often infiltrates devices through two main methods: bundled software downloads and system vulnerabilities.

If you suspect your device has been infected with adware, here are the steps you can take to address it:

Backup Your Files Regularly: Ensure that your important files are routinely backed up—this minimizes data loss even in the event of malware or adware attacks.
Remove Adware Using System Tools: Often, you can use your system’s built-in tools to uninstall adware. However, identifying the adware application might be challenging, especially if malicious components attempt to reinstate themselves after deletion using hidden “resuscitator” programs.
Install Reliable Cybersecurity Software: Consider installing trustworthy anti-malware tools such as Malwarebytes. Many security programs offer free trials which allow you to scan your system for Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs), adware, and other types of harmful software.

After scanning your system, the software will identify and remove any malicious components. Once the adware is eliminated, you should immediately change your passwords, particularly for sensitive accounts, as a precautionary measure.

Preventing Adware Infections

While dealing with adware once it’s installed can be a hassle, implementing preventive measures can help protect your system from future infections. Here are some tips to avoid adware infestations:

Use Trusted Cybersecurity Tools: Install and update cybersecurity software regularly to safeguard your device against malicious programs.
Avoid Downloading Illegal Files: Stay away from websites that offer pirated software or torrent downloads, as these are common sources of bundled adware.
Scan Your Device Frequently: Perform routine scans with your anti-malware tools to detect and address threats early.
Be Skeptical of Unverified Links: Never click on suspicious links from unknown sources—they might redirect you to malicious websites or inadvertently download harmful programs.
Read Installation Agreements Carefully: Before downloading free programs, always read the terms and conditions to ensure no bundled adware is included in the software package.
Ignore Ads from Untrusted Sources: Avoid engaging with ads unless they come from verified providers or trusted websites.
Enable Pop-Up Blockers: Utilize browser extensions or built-in tools to block pop-up ads, reducing the risk of accidental adware installation.

Why Adware Matters?

Adware is more than just an annoyance; it can compromise your privacy and security. Many adware programs collect, monitor, and even sell your personal data to third-party advertising companies.

This data is then used to target users with more aggressive and personalized ads, further disrupting their browsing experience.

Despite its disruptive nature, removing adware is often straightforward. Installing a reputable anti-malware application is usually sufficient to purge the system of unwanted adware.

Taking proactive measures such as using ad-blockers and maintaining a sophisticated cybersecurity suite can help prevent future infections and ensure your digital safety!