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How to remove Ad Free Web from web browsers

Also Known As: Ads by Ad Free Web
Type: Adware
Damage level: Medium

What kind of application is Ad Free Web?

Ad Free Web is promoted as an ad blocker for Google Chrome that allows users to browse without interruption. However, our examination of the app showed that the app displays advertisements (contrary to its advertised functionality). For this reason, we classified Ad Free Web as adware. Additionally, we learned that this app can access certain data.

Ad Free Web adware

Ad Free Web in detail

The ads displayed by Ad Free Web may lead to questionable or untrustworthy websites. These websites could include those with misleading or deceptive content, unauthorized downloads, fake software updates, or even sites that distribute malware. Risks posed by pages opened via ads displayed by this app can include the compromise of device security, theft of sensitive information, financial loss, and invasion of privacy.

The ability of Ad Free Web to read and change data on all websites raises significant concerns. With this level of access, the app can potentially manipulate website content, inject unauthorized ads or malicious code, and compromise the integrity of web pages. It may also collect sensitive user information, such as login credentials or personal data, and pose a risk to user privacy and security.

In conclusion, despite its claim to be an ad blocker, Ad Free Web has been identified as adware and categorized as unreliable. The app displays advertisements contrary to its advertised functionality and can access and modify data on all websites. This raises concerns about the potential manipulation of website content, compromise of user privacy and security, and the overall reliability of the browsing experience.

Threat Summary:
Name Ads by Ad Free Web
Threat Type Adware
Symptoms Your computer becomes slower than normal, you see unwanted pop-up ads, you are redirected to dubious websites.
Distribution methods Deceptive pop-up ads, free software installers (bundling), torrent file downloads.
Damage Internet browser tracking (potential privacy issues), display of unwanted ads, redirects to dubious websites, loss of private information.
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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More about adware

In some cases, adware can take control of web browsers by altering browser settings, such as the homepage, search engine, or new tab page, without the user's consent or awareness. It can redirect users to undesirable or malicious websites, leading to a disruption in the browsing experience. As a consequence, user privacy may be compromised, and potential security risks may arise.

More examples of apps that show ads are Streaming, Fast Incognito Mode, and Pdf download manage.

How did adware install on my computer?

Adware is often bundled with free software or applications obtained from unreliable sources. Users may inadvertently install additional adware when they overlook the installation process, particularly the "Advanced" or "Custom" settings that provide more control.

Deceptive advertisements, misleading download buttons, and malicious links are also common methods for distributing adware, as users can be misled into clicking them, resulting in the installation of adware on their systems.

How to avoid installation of unwanted applications?

Before downloading and installing programs, it is advisable to conduct online research to gather information about them. Ensure that all downloads are obtained from trusted and official sources. During the installation process, carefully review the terms, available options, and utilize the "Custom" or "Advanced" settings to decline additional installations, such as apps, extensions, tools, or features.

Exercise caution while browsing the Internet, as deceptive online content, including advertisements, can appear genuine and harmless. Refrain from agreeing to receive notifications from suspicious websites to avoid potential risks. If your computer is already infected with rogue applications, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate them.

Shady websites promoting Ad Free Web:

Ad Free Web adware dubious promoter Deceptive website promoting Ad Free Web adware (2023-07-14)

Official page:

Ad Free Web adware official page

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:

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.

Ad Free Web adware uninstall via Control Panel

In the uninstall programs window, look for any unwanted applications, select these entries and click "Uninstall" or "Remove".

After uninstalling the unwanted application, scan your computer for any remaining unwanted components or possible malware infections. To scan your computer, use recommended malware removal software.

Remove adware from Internet browsers:

Video showing how to remove Ad Free Web adware using Combo Cleaner:

Google Chrome logoRemove malicious extensions from Google Chrome:

Removing Ad Free Web adware from Google Chrome step 1

Click the Chrome menu icon Google Chrome menu icon (at the top right corner of Google Chrome), select "Extensions" and click "Manage Extensions". Locate "Ad Free Web", and other suspicious extensions, select these entries and click "Remove".

Removing Ad Free Web adware from Google Chrome step 2

Optional method:

If you continue to have problems with removal of the ads by ad free web, 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 plug-ins from Mozilla Firefox:

Removing Ad Free Web adware 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 all recently-installed suspicious extensions, click on the three dots and then click "Remove".

Removing Ad Free Web adware from Mozilla Firefox step 2

Optional method:

Computer users who have problems with ads by ad free web 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 ad free web, 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 ad free web or it's removal please share your knowledge in the comments section below.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What harm can adware cause?

Adware can cause intrusive advertising, browser hijacking, privacy invasion, resource consumption, and security risks.

What does adware do?

The primary objective of adware is to bombard users with intrusive advertisements.

How do adware developers generate revenue?

Adware developers generate revenue by promoting products, websites, or services, often through affiliate programs. This allows them to earn money based on user actions, such as clicks, purchases, or installations. Affiliate programs serve as a key source of income for adware developers, enabling them to monetize the intrusive advertisements displayed to users.

Will Combo Cleaner remove Ad Free Web adware?

Combo Cleaner can conduct comprehensive system scans and effectively remove all adware-type applications. However, it is important to mention that manual removal alone, without the assistance of security tools, may not be fully effective. There can be cases where remnants of files from the adware persist in the system even after manual uninstallation.

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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.

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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
Ads by Ad Free Web QR code
Scan this QR code to have an easy access removal guide of Ads by Ad Free Web on your mobile device.
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Platform: Windows

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