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Adware

Adware is unwanted software that displays advertisements on your computer or mobile device, often without your explicit consent. It typically comes bundled with other legitimate programs and can slow down your system or redirect your browser.

TECHNICAL DEFINITION

Adware is a form of unwanted software that automatically displays or downloads advertising material to a user's device, often bundled with freeware or shareware, impacting system performance and privacy by collecting user data and displaying unsolicited pop-up ads or redirects.

BACKGROUND

In computing, a trojan horse is a kind of malware that misleads users as to its true intent by disguising itself as a normal program. Trojans are generally spread by some form of social engineering. For example, a user may be duped into executing an email attachment disguised to appear innocuous, or into clicking on a fake advertisement on the Internet. Although their payload can be anything, many modern forms act as a backdoor, contacting a controller who can then have unauthorized access to the affected device. Ransomware attacks are often carried out using a trojan. Unlike computer viruses and worms, trojans generally do not attempt to inject themselves into other files or otherwise propagate themselves.

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SYNONYMS & ALIASES

  • Advertising malware
  • Ad-supported software
  • PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program) (often)
  • Browser hijacker (often)

USAGE NOTE

Adware is often a nuisance rather than a direct threat, but it can pave the way for more malicious software or privacy breaches.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to Adware.

  • Malwarebytes

    Develops anti-malware software that specializes in detecting and removing adware, spyware, and other potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) from computers and mobile devices.

  • NortonLifeLock (now Gen Digital)

    Offers comprehensive cybersecurity software that includes protection against adware, viruses, malware, and other online threats for consumers.

  • Kaspersky Lab

    Develops a wide range of cybersecurity solutions, including endpoint protection and antivirus software known for its robust detection and removal of adware and various forms of malware.

  • Sophos

    Provides advanced cybersecurity solutions for businesses, including endpoint protection, firewall, and cloud security, all designed to detect, block, and remove adware and other threats.

  • Trend Micro

    Offers cybersecurity software for consumers and enterprises, providing protection against adware, ransomware, phishing, and other web-based threats.

  • ESET

    Known for its antivirus and internet security products that efficiently detect and remove adware, spyware, and other malicious software, protecting users' systems and data.

  • Microsoft

    Through Microsoft Defender Antivirus, it provides built-in, real-time protection against various threats, including adware, for Windows operating systems.

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