How to uninstall GuardMate from computers
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on
What kind of program is GuardMate?
GuardMate is a web browser that is promoted as a tool for improving user privacy. However, concerns exist regarding its distribution methods, as certain versions may be distributed through untrustworthy channels. Although it is not inherently malicious, we categorized it as a potentially unwanted application.
Potentially unwanted application overview
Downloading GuardMate from unofficial sources may result in it being bundled with extra software that users may not want to install and do so without realizing it. These additional programs could include adware, browser hijackers, or other unwanted applications that may disrupt browsing and lead to further problems
Another concern with GuardMate is whether it truly enhances privacy. Potentially unwanted apps may be designed to collect user data. If GuardMate is one of these programs, its developers could potentially share or sell user information to third parties, raising privacy risks.
Installing GuardMate may also result in performance problems, as it could use a significant amount of system resources, leading to slowdowns, crashes, and similar issues. According to its installer, the browser has permission to utilize all system resources (a screenshot of this installer is included below the article).
GuardMate may also expose users to unwanted ads. Some browsers, if obtained from untrustworthy sources, flood users with pop-ups, inject ads, and (or) redirect traffic to questionable websites. This can disrupt browsing and even increase the risk of encountering scams or other malicious content.
Thus, users should only download software from trusted sources and pay close attention to the installation process. If GuardMate is already installed and causing issues, it is advisable to remove it. If it cannot be achieved manually (or if a complete removal cannot be done), using a tool like Combo Cleaner can help.
| Name | GuardMate potentially unwanted program |
| Threat Type | Potentially unwanted program |
| Functionality | Web browser |
| Detection Names (Installer) | N/A (VirusTotal) |
| Detection Names (Application) | N/A (VirusTotal) |
| Symptoms | Slow performance, frequent pop-up ads, unexpected redirects to unfamiliar websites, and the presence of unfamiliar programs or toolbars. |
| Distribution Methods | Deceptive pop-up ads, free software installers (bundling), fake updates, questionable websites. |
| Damage | Slow computer performance, potential privacy and security issues. |
| Malware Removal (Windows) | To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your computer with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, although GuardMate is advertised as a legitimate browser, downloading it from unofficial sources presents potential risks. It could come with unwanted software, collect user data, and (or) slow down computers. Users should steer clear of programs exhibiting these behaviors.
Examples of apps virtually identical to GuardMate are GuardGlider and PrivacyShield.
How did potentially unwanted applications install on my computer?
Questionable and (or) free software often comes with additional programs that can be installed if users do not pay attention during the installation process. By skipping over "Advanced" or "Custom" settings or not unchecking boxes, users may unknowingly agree to install these extra program.
In some cases, deceptive ads, pop-ups, and fake emails can trick users into downloading unwanted apps. Using unofficial sources like third-party downloaders, untrustworthy websites, or P2P networks can also lead to accidental installations.
How to avoid installation of potentially unwanted applications?
Always get files and apps from reliable app stores or official websites. When installing, pay attention to the setup options, like "Custom" or "Advanced," and make sure to decline any extra software that might be included (if you do not wish to install it). Avoid clicking on suspicious links, pop-ups, or ads from untrustworthy websites.
Be cautious about allowing questionable sites to send notifications. Keep your software and system up to date, and use trusted security tools to run regular scans for protection. If your computer is already infected with rogue apps, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate them.
GuardMate's installation folder:
Installation setup of GuardMate application:
Website promoting GuardMate application:
Instant automatic malware removal:
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Quick menu:
- What is GuardMate?
- STEP 1. Uninstall deceptive applications using Control Panel.
- STEP 2. Remove rogue extensions from Google Chrome.
- STEP 3. Remove potentially unwanted plug-ins from Mozilla Firefox.
- STEP 4. Remove rogue extensions from Safari.
- STEP 5. Remove rogue plug-ins from Microsoft Edge.
Removal of potentially unwanted applications:
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 suspicious applications, select these entries and click "Uninstall" or "Remove".
After uninstalling the potentially unwanted application, scan your computer for any remaining unwanted components or possible malware infections. To scan your computer, use recommended malware removal software.
Remove rogue extensions from Internet browsers:
At time of research, GuardMate did not install any unwanted browser extensions, however, some unwanted applications can be installed together with adware and browser hijackers. If you experience unwanted ads or redirects when browsing the Internet, continue with the removal guide below.
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 "Extensions" and click "Manage Extensions". Locate all recently-installed suspicious extensions, select these entries and click "Remove".
Optional method:
If you continue to have problems with removal of the guardmate potentially unwanted program, 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 and themes". Click "Extensions", in the opened window locate all recently-installed suspicious extensions, click on the three dots and then click "Remove".
Optional method:
Computer users who have problems with guardmate potentially unwanted program 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 guardmate potentially unwanted program, 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of an unwanted application?
Unwanted applications are usually designed to generate revenue by displaying ads, collecting user data, directing users to various websites, offering in-app purchases, or in other ways. However, some of these apps may have more harmful capabilities.
Is GuardMate application legal?
Unwanted applications are often legally allowed because their End User License Agreements (EULA) notify users of potential actions, like showing ads or collecting data, that the app may carry out.
Is having GuardMate installed on my computer dangerous?
If obtained from an untrustworthy website or some other suspicious source, GuardMate could pose various risks, including potential privacy and security issues.
Will Combo Cleaner help me remove GuardMate application?
Combo Cleaner will thoroughly scan your computer to detect and remove any malicious or unwanted applications. While manual removal might occasionally leave behind hidden files, Combo Cleaner ensures complete elimination of these apps.
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