CSIRT-IE - Potentially Unwanted Application


Description

Potentially Unwanted Application (PUA) or Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP) is an application or program that is installed on the computer when other software is installed. PUA is not a malicious program. It is not technically considered malware because the PUA is not intended to cause any damage to the computer. However, PUAs often serves as a marketing tool, modifying the browser settings, displaying unwanted advertisements, using computer resources, in particular Random Access Memory (RAM) in the process, slowing down the computer processing time while annoying the end user with unwanted advertisments

Problem

No. Consequences
1. PUAs slow down a computer as they use a lot of Random Access Memory (RAM).
2. PUAs display a large number of advertisements.
3. PUAs add toolbars to the browser that use valuable memory.
4. PUAs collect personal information.

How to avoid installing Potentionaly Unwanted Applications (PUAs)

No. Steps Additional Information
1. Exercise caution when installing a new application. Always Exercise caution when installing free software. Read the individual dialogs boxes carefully.
2. Advanced Installation Option. It is recommended that the Advanced Installation Option is selected during the installation of new software and ensure to deselect all additional software during installation.
3. Trust the original vinder of the software product. It is recommended that software is always downloaded from the source vinder of the software and not from freeware of download portals.
4. Exercise a Healthy distruct. Potentially Unwanted Application (PUA) promise to optimise computer systems, speed up internet access. It is recommended that a healty distrust of such unfounded promises be exercise.
5. Be Alert to Dark Patterns. Dark patterns (also known as a "deceptive design pattern") are user interfaces that are intentionally designed and configured to trick users into actions or doing things that they might not have done of their own free will, such as sharing more information than they intended to.
6. Unofficial 'seals' as credibility indicators. Be alert to and exercise caution on encounting an unofficial seal.
7. Pre-filled checkboxes. Be alert to and exercise caution on encounting pre-filled checkboxes.
8. Desired Path Highlighted. Be alert to and exercise caution on encounting the 'Skip' button is grayed out but the 'Continue' button is highlighted.
9. Additional Security Measures. In addition to carefully checking software downloads, use should be made of additional security programs. These programs include, a pop-up or ad blocker, an anti-spyware program and anti-malware software.

Removing PUAs from a computer with a Windows 10 Operating System

No. Consequences
1. Open the Control Panel.
2. Select the Programs category.
3. Select the PUA from the list of installed programs.
4. Click the Uninstall button in the top bar.
5. Follow the uninstall instructions to remove the PUA from the computer.