Adware
Adware
Adware is a type of software that downloads, plays, or displays advertisements on a computer after it is installed or while the application is in use. Adware is often thought of as a virus that tries to obtain information about ones personal information by using these fake advertisements.
Infection
A computer can become infected with Adware by a number of ways, but most likely from downloading or clicking on questionable links from the internet. Often times, it is possible that a user has no idea that they are downloading harmful software because Adware disguises itself with names such as "download XP service pack 4, great bargains, latest update!" It is important to be safe and smart about what is viewed and downloaded from the internet, and Symantec Anti-virus will usually notify when something harmful is about to be downloaded.
Please note: Beginning in the 2014-2015 academic year, Gustavus Technology Services will no longer offer Symantec Endpoint Protection for installation on personally-owned computers. Campus network users (Windows) will still be required to have a functional antivirus program installed on their computer. These programs include Norton, Kaspersky, etc. On Windows 8 machines, the standard Windows Defender program is recommended.
Removal
Windows
Please note: Beginning in the 2014-2015 academic year, Gustavus Technology Services will no longer offer Symantec Endpoint Protection for installation on personally-owned computers. Campus network users (Windows) will still be required to have a functional antivirus program installed on their computer. These programs include Norton, Kaspersky, etc. On Windows 8 machines, the standard Windows Defender program is recommended.
The removal process of Adware can either be quick, or stressful, depending on the sophistication of the Adware Software downloaded. Regardless, the steps to take for removal are as follows:
- Boot Windows into "Safe Mode" by restarting, and pressing F8 upon start up.
- Run an antivirus full computer scan.
- Install Malwarebytes (in "Safe Mode With Networking")
- Run another "Full System Scan"
- If this fails, install and run ComboFix. This link also gives detailed instructions on how to use the software.
- If non of the above solutions work, the user is strongly advised to bring their machine to Gustavus Technology Services