Adware, short for advertising-supported software, is a type of cyber threat that displays unwanted advertisements on your computer or mobile device. Although it’s not always malicious, adware can compromise your system’s performance, invade your privacy and lead to significant cybersecurity risks.
Understanding how adware works and how to protect your business is crucial in today’s digital landscape.
Read: The Best Practices Against Cyber Attacks
What Is Adware?
Adware refers to software that delivers unstoppable advertisements, usually in the form of pop-ups or banners. It can be bundled with free software or applications, making it easier for users to install it on their systems unknowingly. This legitimate yet sneaky way allows software developers to recoup costs for the software once it’s been downloaded.
However, it can also be a type of malware that gathers information about you. Once installed on your device, adware disrupts your browsing experience and tracks your browsing habits to collect personal data about you to display targeted ads. Some adware can also act as a gateway for more severe malware, like ransomware, which puts your entire network at risk. Worse yet, the adware developer can sell your personal data to third parties.
How Does Adware Get on Your Device?
Adware typically finds its way onto your computer or device through:
- Legitimate adware: Legitimate adware is any online advertisement that doesn’t contain malware. It is downloaded with the user’s consent, usually to get a free product or service.
- Freeware or shareware: Many free software downloads bundle adware as a way for developers to generate revenue. Users often overlook the fine print during installation and unknowingly agree to install adware alongside the main program.
- Malicious websites: Visiting unsecured or malicious websites can result in accidental adware downloads. These sites often trick users into clicking on ads or pop-ups that initiate the download process.
- Browser hijacking: Adware can modify your browser’s settings without your knowledge or consent to redirect you to unwanted websites or display ads. It can also change the homepage.
Common Signs of Adware
If you notice any of these symptoms, your device might be infected with adware:
- Excessive pop-ups and banners: You see more ads than usual, even on websites that typically have few or no ads.
- Slow device performance: Adware can consume system resources, leading to slower loading times, random crashes and overall sluggishness.
- Unexpected browser redirects: You’re being redirected to unfamiliar websites or search results.
- Unwanted toolbars or extensions: You find new toolbars, plugins or extensions installed in your browser that you didn’t add.
- Change in browser’s homepage: Adware can change your browser’s homepage without your permission.
Protecting Your Business from Adware
To safeguard your business from adware, consider implementing the following strategies:
- Be cautious: Only download software or applications from reputable and trusted sources. Make sure any websites you visit are protected. Don’t click on suspicious links or ads.
- Use antivirus and antimalware: Antivirus and antimalware can detect and remove adware before it can cause damage.
- Keep software updated: Regularly update your operating system, software and applications to patch security vulnerabilities.
- Educate employees: Train your staff on safe browsing habits, such as not clicking on suspicious ads. Cybersecurity awareness should be part of your overall IT strategy.
- Implement ad-blockers: Install ad-blockers on browsers to prevent unwanted ads from appearing in the first place, reducing the likelihood of accidental adware installation.
Safeguard Your Company with Thriveon
By understanding the risks of adware and taking proactive measures, you can keep your business secure and ensure a smooth, ad-free work environment. However, if you want to step up your cybersecurity game, especially since it’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month, consider working with an award-winning managed service provider like Thriveon.
Our cybersecurity-intensive approach guarantees protection from cyber attacks like adware. We can also help you achieve regulatory compliance, and our fractional chief information officers (CIOs) will align you with over 5oo industry best practices to ensure the best security for your organization.
Schedule a meeting now for more information.