How to remove Dark Browse adware and the advertisements it displays
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on (updated)
What is Dark Browse?
Dark Browse is an adware-type browser extension promoted as a tool that enables dark mode for websites. While the functionalities promised by advertising-supported software are usually fake, after analyzing Dark Browse we learned that its promised function is operational. However, this browser extension still works as adware - displays various advertisements and collects private data.
Dark Browse adware overview
It is noteworthy that advertising-supported software may not run intrusive advertisement campaigns if certain conditions are not met (e.g., browser/system or user geolocation are incompatible, visits to particular websites are not made, etc.). However, regardless of whether Dark Browse (or other adware) displays ads, its presence on a system endangers the device's integrity and user privacy.
Adware-delivered adverts primarily endorse scams (e.g., fraudulent threat alerts and outdated/missing software warnings, fake surveys and lotteries, etc.), untrustworthy/harmful sites and software, and even malware. Some intrusive advertisements can infiltrate software into systems - once clicked.
It is improbable that reputable developers/creators use adware to promote their products, yet they can be encountered via these ads. This promotion is actually undertaken by scammers who abuse the products' affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.
Furthermore, Dark Browse has data tracking abilities. Advertising-supported software typically targets browsing information, personally identifiable details, usernames/passwords, credit card numbers, etc. The gathered data is monetized through sale to third-parties.
To summarize, the presence of software like Dark Browse on devices - can result in system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
| Name | Ads by Dark Browse |
| Threat Type | Adware, Unwanted ads, Pop-up Virus |
| Browser Extension(s) | Dark Browse |
| Supposed Functionality | Dark mode for websites |
| Symptoms | Seeing advertisements not originating from the sites you are browsing. Intrusive pop-up ads. Decreased Internet browsing speed. |
| Distribution Methods | Deceptive pop-up ads, free software installers (bundling), fake Flash Player installers. |
| Damage | Decreased computer performance, browser tracking - privacy issues, possible additional malware infections. |
| Malware Removal (Windows) | To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your computer with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. |
Adware examples
We have analyzed thousands of adware samples; AdBlock Max - remove invasive ads, Everyday Quote, and Real Dark are just a few of the latest. This software appears legitimate and offers handy functionalities. However, the promised features are rarely operational. Even if they do work, adware still endangers device and user safety.
How did Dark Browse install on my computer?
We acquired Dark Browse from a dubious download webpage. Adware is often promoted through deceptive sites, and it can have "official" download pages. Most users enter such websites via redirects caused by pages using rogue advertising networks, mistyped URLs, spam browser notifications, intrusive adverts, or installed adware (with browser force-opening capabilities).
Bundling - packing regular program installers with unwanted/malicious supplements - is also used to proliferate adware. Download from untrustworthy channels (e.g., unofficial and free file-hosting websites, Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, etc.) and rushed installations - increase the risk of inadvertently allowing bundled content into the system.
Advertising-supported software is spread by intrusive advertisements as well. When clicked on, some of these ads can execute scripts to make stealthy downloads/installations.
How to avoid installation of adware?
We strongly advise researching software and using only official/verified download sources. Installation processes must be approached with caution, e.g., reading terms, studying possible options, using the "Custom" or "Advanced" settings, and opting-out of all additions.
Another recommendation is to be vigilant when browsing, as illegitimate and malicious content usually appears harmless. For example, intrusive adverts look innocuous yet redirect to highly questionable sites (e.g., gambling, pornography, adult-dating, etc.).
If you experience such advertisements/redirects, check your device and immediately remove all suspect applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with Dark Browse, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate this adware.
Screenshot of the websites used to promote Dark Browse adware:
Screenshots of light color scheme websites darkened by Dark Browse adware:
Instant automatic malware removal:
Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced IT skills. Combo Cleaner is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of malware. Download it by clicking the button below:
▼ DOWNLOAD Combo Cleaner
By downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. 7 days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by Rcs Lt, the parent company of PCRisk.com read more.
Quick menu:
- What is Dark Browse?
- STEP 1. Uninstall Dark Browse application using Control Panel.
- STEP 2. Remove Dark Browse ads from Google Chrome.
- STEP 3. Remove 'Ads by Dark Browse' from Mozilla Firefox.
- STEP 4. Remove Dark Browse extension from Safari.
- STEP 5. Remove rogue plug-ins from Microsoft Edge.
Dark Browse adware removal:
Windows 11 users:
Right-click on the Start icon, select Apps and Features. In the opened window search for the application you want to uninstall, after locating it, click on the three vertical dots and select Uninstall.
Windows 10 users:
Right-click in the lower left corner of the screen, in the Quick Access Menu select Control Panel. In the opened window choose Programs and Features.
Windows 7 users:
Click Start (Windows Logo at the bottom left corner of your desktop), choose Control Panel. Locate Programs and click Uninstall a program.
macOS (OSX) users:
Click Finder, in the opened screen select Applications. Drag the app from the Applications folder to the Trash (located in your Dock), then right click the Trash icon and select Empty Trash.
In the uninstall programs window, look for "Dark Browse", select this entry and click "Uninstall" or "Remove".
After uninstalling the potentially unwanted application (which causes Dark Browse ads), scan your computer for any remaining unwanted components or possible malware infections. To scan your computer, use recommended malware removal software.
Remove Dark Browse adware from Internet browsers:
At time of research, Dark Browse did not install its browser plug-ins on Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Mozilla Firefox, however, it was bundled with other adware. Therefore, you are advised to remove all potentially unwanted browser add-ons from your Internet browsers.
Video showing how to remove potentially unwanted browser add-ons:
Remove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:
Click the Chrome menu icon 
(at the top right corner of Google Chrome), select "More tools" and click "Extensions". Locate all recently-installed suspicious browser add-ons and remove them.
Optional method:
If you continue to have problems with removal of the ads by dark browse, reset your Google Chrome browser settings. Click the Chrome menu icon (at the top right corner of Google Chrome) and select Settings. Scroll down to the bottom of the screen. Click the Advanced… link.
After scrolling to the bottom of the screen, click the Reset (Restore settings to their original defaults) button.
In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Google Chrome settings to default by clicking the Reset button.
Remove malicious plugins from Mozilla Firefox:
Click the Firefox menu 
(at the top right corner of the main window), select "Add-ons". Click on "Extensions", in the opened window remove all recently-installed suspicious browser plug-ins.
Optional method:
Computer users who have problems with ads by dark browse removal can reset their Mozilla Firefox settings.
Open Mozilla Firefox, at the top right corner of the main window, click the Firefox menu, in the opened menu, click Help.
Select Troubleshooting Information.
In the opened window, click the Refresh Firefox button.
In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Mozilla Firefox settings to default by clicking the Refresh Firefox button.
Remove malicious extensions from Safari:
Make sure your Safari browser is active, click Safari menu, and select Preferences....
In the opened window click Extensions, locate any recently installed suspicious extension, select it and click Uninstall.
Optional method:
Make sure your Safari browser is active and click on Safari menu. From the drop down menu select Clear History and Website Data...
In the opened window select all history and click the Clear History button.
Remove malicious extensions from Microsoft Edge:
Click the Edge menu icon 
(at the upper-right corner of Microsoft Edge), select "Extensions". Locate all recently-installed suspicious browser add-ons and click "Remove" below their names.
Optional method:
If you continue to have problems with removal of the ads by dark browse, reset your Microsoft Edge browser settings. Click the Edge menu icon (at the top right corner of Microsoft Edge) and select Settings.
In the opened settings menu select Reset settings.
Select Restore settings to their default values. In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Microsoft Edge settings to default by clicking the Reset button.
- If this did not help, follow these alternative instructions explaining how to reset the Microsoft Edge browser.
Summary:
Commonly, adware or potentially unwanted applications infiltrate Internet browsers through free software downloads. Note that the safest source for downloading free software is via developers' websites only. To avoid installation of adware, be very attentive when downloading and installing free software. When installing previously-downloaded free programs, choose the custom or advanced installation options – this step will reveal any potentially unwanted applications listed for installation together with your chosen free program.
Post a comment:
If you have additional information on ads by dark browse or it's removal please share your knowledge in the comments section below.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What harm can adware cause?
Adware can decrease browsing quality and system performance. This software typically has data tracking abilities, which make it a privacy threat. Additionally, adware-displayed ads can be deceptive/malicious and cause serious problems.
What does adware do?
Adware operates by enabling the placement of advertisements on visited websites and/or different interfaces. Some types can also force-open sites and gather personal data.
How do adware developers generate revenue?
Adware developers generate revenue mostly through affiliate programs by endorsing various websites, applications, products, services, and so on.
Will Combo Cleaner remove Dark Browse adware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your system and eliminate installed adware-type applications. It is pertinent to mention that manual removal (unaided by security software) might not be ideal. In some cases, despite the adware itself being (manually) removed - various remnants (files) remain hidden in the system. What is more, this leftover content can continue running and causing issues. Therefore, it is paramount to eliminate adware thoroughly.
Outstanding!
▼ Show Discussion