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Removing the Files Converter Free Online adware-type browser extension

Also Known As: Ads by Files Converter Free Online
Type: Adware
Damage level: Medium

What is Files Converter Free Online?

While inspecting questionable software-promoting websites, our research team discovered the Files Converter Free Online browser extension. It is promoted as a tool for converting various file formats. However, our analysis revealed that this browser extension also operates as adware. Files Converter Free Online displays ads and tracks users' browsing activity.

Files Converter Free Online adware extension appearance

Files Converter Free Online adware overview

Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It enables the placement of third-party graphical content (advertisements) on visited websites and/or other interfaces.

The delivered ads promote scams, unreliable/harmful sites and software, and even malware. Furthermore, some intrusive adverts can perform stealthy downloads/installations upon being clicked.

Note that any legitimate products encountered via these advertisements are most likely endorsed by scammers who abuse their affiliate programs in order to acquire illegitimate commissions.

Adware might not run intrusive ad campaigns if certain conditions are unsuitable, e.g., incompatible browser/system specs or user geolocation, particular websites are not visited, etc. However, regardless of whether Files Converter Free Online displays adverts - its presence on a system endangers device/user safety.

Furthermore, Files Converter Free Online has data-tracking abilities. Advertising-supported software usually targets visited URLs, viewed pages, searched queries, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, finance-related information, and so on. The collected data can then be shared with and/or sold to third-parties (potentially, cyber criminals).

To summarize, the presence of software like Files Converter Free Online on devices can lead to system infections, serious privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.

Threat Summary:
Name Ads by Files Converter Free Online
Threat Type Adware, Unwanted ads, Pop-up Virus
Browser Extension(s) Files Converter Free Online
Supposed Functionality File format converter
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.
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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.

Adware examples

CleanBlockerMulticheck Checkbox CheckerWeb Video PlayerMovies, and Streamic are merely some examples of adware that we have analyzed. It typically appears genuine and offers various features. However, these functions seldom work as promised, and in most cases - they do not work at all.

How did Files Converter Free Online install on my computer?

We acquired Files Converter Free Online from its "official" promotional page. In addition to such sites, adware is pushed through scam webpages. Users typically enter these websites via redirects caused by pages using rogue advertising networks, spam browser notifications, mistyped URLs, intrusive ads, or installed adware (with browser force-opening capabilities).

Advertising-supported software can also be bundled with (packed alongside) ordinary programs. Downloading from dubious channels (e.g., freeware and third-party sites, P2P sharing networks, etc.) and rushing installation processes (e.g., using "Easy/Express" settings, etc.) increase the risk of allowing bundled content into the system.

Intrusive advertisements are used in adware distribution as well. Once clicked on, some of the ads can execute scripts to perform downloads/installations without user permission.

How to avoid installation of adware?

We strongly recommend researching software and downloading only from official/verified channels. Additionally, when installing, it is crucial to read terms, study possible options, use the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opt-out of all supplements.

We advise being careful when browsing since fraudulent and malicious content usually looks harmless. For example, intrusive adverts appear legitimate/innocuous, yet they redirect to highly questionable websites (e.g., gambling, pornography, adult-dating, etc.).

In case of encounters with such ads and/or redirects, check the device and immediately remove all suspect applications and browser extensions/plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with Files Converter Free Online, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate this adware.

Screenshot of the permissions asked by Files Converter Free Online adware:

Files Converter Free Online asking for various permissions

Screenshots of Files Converter Free Online adware's "official" promotional website:

Website promoting Files Converter Free Online adware 1 Website promoting Files Converter Free Online adware 2

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:

Files Converter Free Online adware removal:

Windows 11 users:

Accessing Apps and Features in Windows 11

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:

Accessing Programs and Features (uninstall) in Windows 8

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:

Accessing Programs and Features (uninstall) in Windows 7

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:

Uninstall app in OSX (Mac)

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.

Files Converter Free Online adware uninstall via Control Panel

In the uninstall programs window, look for "Files Converter Free Online", select this entry and click "Uninstall" or "Remove".

After uninstalling the potentially unwanted application (which causes Files Converter Free Online ads), scan your computer for any remaining unwanted components or possible malware infections. To scan your computer, use recommended malware removal software.

Remove Files Converter Free Online adware from Internet browsers:

Video showing how to remove potentially unwanted browser add-ons:

Google Chrome logoRemove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:

Removing Files Converter Free Online ads from Google Chrome step 1

Click the Chrome menu icon Google Chrome menu icon (at the top right corner of Google Chrome), select "More Tools" and click "Extensions". Locate "Files Converter Free Online" and all other recently-installed suspicious extensions, select these entries and click "Remove".

Removing Files Converter Free Online ads from Google Chrome step 2

Optional method:

If you continue to have problems with removal of the ads by files converter free online, reset your Google Chrome browser settings. Click the Chrome menu icon Google 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.

Google Chrome settings reset step 1

After scrolling to the bottom of the screen, click the Reset (Restore settings to their original defaults) button.

Google Chrome settings reset step 2

In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Google Chrome settings to default by clicking the Reset button.

Google Chrome settings reset step 3

Mozilla Firefox logoRemove malicious plugins from Mozilla Firefox:

Removing Files Converter Free Online ads from Mozilla Firefox step 1

Click the Firefox menu firefox menu icon (at the top right corner of the main window), select "Add-ons and themes". Click "Extensions", in the opened window locate "Files Converter Free Online" and all other recently-installed suspicious extensions, click on the three dots and then click "Remove".

Removing Files Converter Free Online ads from Mozilla Firefox step 2

Optional method:

Computer users who have problems with ads by files converter free online removal can reset their Mozilla Firefox settings.

Open Mozilla Firefox, at the top right corner of the main window, click the Firefox menu, firefox menu icon in the opened menu, click Help.

Accessing settings (Reset Firefox to default settings step 1)

Select Troubleshooting Information.

Accessing Troubleshooting Information (Reset Firefox to default settings step 2)

In the opened window, click the Refresh Firefox button.

Clicking on Refresh Firefox button (Reset Firefox to default settings step 3)

In the opened window, confirm that you wish to reset Mozilla Firefox settings to default by clicking the Refresh Firefox button.

Confirm your want to reset Firefox settings to default (Reset Firefox to default settings step 4)

safari browser logoRemove malicious extensions from Safari:

removing adware from safari step 1 - accessing preferences

Make sure your Safari browser is active, click Safari menu, and select Preferences....

removing adware from safari step 2 - removing extensions

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...

resetting safari step 1

In the opened window select all history and click the Clear History button.

resetting safari step 2

Microsoft Edge (Chromium) logoRemove malicious extensions from Microsoft Edge:

Removing adware from Microsoft Edge step 1

Click the Edge menu icon Microsoft Edge (chromium) 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.

Removing adware from Microsoft Edge step 2

Optional method:

If you continue to have problems with removal of the ads by files converter free online, reset your Microsoft Edge browser settings. Click the Edge menu icon Microsoft Edge (chromium) menu icon (at the top right corner of Microsoft Edge) and select Settings.

Microsoft Edge (Chromium) reset step 1

In the opened settings menu select Reset settings.

Microsoft Edge (Chromium) reset step 2

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.

Microsoft Edge (Chromium) reset step 3

  • If this did not help, follow these alternative instructions explaining how to reset the Microsoft Edge browser.

Summary:

declining installation of adware while downloading free software sampleCommonly, 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 files converter free online or it's removal please share your knowledge in the comments section below.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What harm can adware cause?

Adware delivers ads promoting dangerous content that can cause severe issues, including system infections, financial losses, and so on. This software usually has data-tracking functionalities - hence, it is also considered to be a threat to user privacy.

What does adware do?

Adware stands for advertising-supported software. It delivers intrusive ad campaigns, i.e., displays advertisements on visited websites and/or other interfaces. Additionally, some types can force-open webpages and collect private data.

How do adware developers generate revenue?

Adware developers generate revenue mainly through affiliate programs by promoting various websites, applications, products, services, and other content.

Will Combo Cleaner remove Files Converter Free Online adware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner will scan your device and eliminate detected adware-type applications. It is pertinent to mention that manual removal (performed without the aid of security programs) might not be a perfect solution. In some instances, even after the advertising-supported software has been manually removed - various file leftovers stay within the system. Furthermore, the remnants can continue operating and causing problems. Hence, adware must be eliminated thoroughly.

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About the author:

Tomas Meskauskas

Tomas Meskauskas - expert security researcher, professional malware analyst.

I am passionate about computer security and technology. I have an experience of over 10 years working in various companies related to computer technical issue solving and Internet security. I have been working as an author and editor for pcrisk.com since 2010. Follow me on Twitter and LinkedIn to stay informed about the latest online security threats. Contact Tomas Meskauskas.

PCrisk security portal is brought by a company RCS LT. Joined forces of security researchers help educate computer users about the latest online security threats. More information about the company RCS LT.

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Software uninstall instructions
Malware activity

Global malware activity level today:

Medium threat activity

Increased attack rate of infections detected within the last 24 hours.

QR Code
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