Frequently Asked Questions

Potentially Unwanted Applications (PUAs) are unwanted software programs that come bundled in legitimate free software programs as a package. These may also be called Potentially Unwanted Programs, or PUPs.
Not all PUAs are destructive, but some can cause very annoying behaviors, like generating pop up ads or causing your computer to run very slowly. These applications can negatively affect a computer’s performance and can even introduce security risks such as spyware and other unwanted programs.

How does a PUA (Potentially Unwanted Application) work?

Often embedded within free software, potentially unwanted programs will download and install themselves during the installation of a legitimate free software bundle. Because the PUAs arrive along with the End User License Agreement (EULA) that governs the bundled software, these unwanted programs are categorized differently than malware. These unwanted programs can come in the form of adware, browser hijackers, browser toolbars and even spyware.

Common PUAs

Adware
Adware is software that displays unwanted advertising on a computer or mobile device, usually in the form of pop-up ads, or they may redirect your browser to a certain website. While it usually doesn’t cause any direct harm to the users’ device, it can cause very annoying behaviors and could contain spyware, as well.
Browser hijacker
Browser hijacking is caused by malicious software. Generally used to display advertising, a browser hijacker can also be used to generate visits to a specific website, or can redirect you to a fraudulent website that could download malware onto your computer.
Spyware
Spyware is designed to do exactly what it sounds like — it can hide on your computer and record your keystrokes and track your online activity. Cyber thieves can then obtain sensitive personal information, like your passwords or payment card information.