DownloadProtect is an adware extension for Chrome that displays intrusive ads and prevents its elimination
DownloadProtect is a potentially unwanted application[1] that gets installed on the computer when users casually install free programs from the internet. Alternatively, the browser extension for Chrome might be installed via third-party sites. Regardless of its infiltration methods, DownloadProtect is an undesirable application that will only create havoc for users each time they attempt to browse the internet.
Once installed, DownloadProtect virus gives itself a variety of permissions and starts injecting JavaScript[2] into every website that users visit. For that reason, they will see pop-ups, banners, offers, deals, in-text links, flashing windows, pop-unders, and similar intrusive content on every site that they visit. The adware related to the app alters Chrome group policies – this makes DownloadProtect removal particularly difficult.
| Name | DownloadProtect |
| Category | Adware, PUP |
| Type | Browser extension |
| Distribution | Software bundling, unsafe third-party sites |
| Activities | Changes Chrome group policies and injects every visited site with JavaScript code that initiates intrusive advertisments |
| Risk factors | Money loss, malware infections |
| Termination | Use our manual instructions below. In case that does not work, employ reputable security application and scan your computer |
| Recovery | If the PUP damaged the operating system files, a scan FortectIntego is a good way to restore it |
While most potentially unwanted programs are considered to be minor infections, some of them implement malware-like behavior, and DownloadProtect seems to fall into the latter category. Upon installation, it grants itself the following permissions that allow it to:
- Read and change all data on the visited websites;
- Read and change browsing history on all signed-in devices;
- Display notifications;
- Read and change bookmarks;
- Manage downloads;
- Manage apps, extensions, and themes;
- Communicate with cooperating applications, etc.
Such elevated permissions might allow DownloadProtect virus to install additional browser extensions, toolbars, and other programs without permissions. Besides, users might find a variety of links inserted into their bookmarks. This type of behavior clutter the browser and might lead to malware infections, or even identity fraud, as some malicious apps can spy on users without any permissions.
Additionally, DownloadProtect employs JavaScript (JS), which allows it to inject intrusive advertisement on each site the infected user's visit. This is done to monetize on ad revenue, and it does not matter is the clicks made were intentional or accidental, as pay-per-click revenue is often used.
DownloadProtect also ensures that sponsored parties get plenty of visitors, artificially increasing the rank among the search results. Unfortunately, these websites might be unsafe to use, as they might push bogus software or technical support scams.
All in all, if you discovered that your Google Chrome is spamming your searches and sites that you visit with persistent advertisements, you should check for and remove DownloadProtect malware from your device. For that, follow our instructions below. Additionally, experts advise using FortectIntego for fast recovery after the infection is terminated.
Ways to avoid potentially unwanted applications on your computer
Despite the popular belief, users are often at fault themselves when their computers are suffering from cyber infections. Reason for that being is the fact that user interaction is almost always mandatory to place the unwanted app on the device.
One of the most popular tactics to spread PUPs is called software bundling. This deceptive marketing technique has been used for a while now and affects both, Mac and Windows users. Therefore, regardless of what operating system you use, it is not immune to adware or other PUP infection.
To make it clear: every third-party site bundles applications for monetization purposes. Therefore, even the most known software hosting sites like Download.com, FileHippo.com or Softpedia can be a source for potentially unwanted programs. Unfortunately, software bundling remains legal practice, although security experts[3] around the world often disagree.
To avoid being a victim of a PUP, you should watch the installation procedure of all software carefully. Those who rush and skip steps, pick Recommended/Quick settings, are at the highest risk of missing the crucial statements, fine print or pre-ticked boxes. Therefore, Always opt for Advanced/Custom settings and read through the installation instructions carefully. Finally, remove all the ticks next to browser extensions, toolbars, system optimizers, etc.
To remove DownloadProtect browser extension fully, you have to reset Google Chrome browser
To remove DownloadProtect virus, you will have to terminate the adware app that is installed on your device. Unfortunately, it is often hard to determine which application is actually related. Nevertheless, you can try checking the installed apps list and uninstall all suspicious entries one by one. We explain in detail how to accomplish that below.
You can also terminate DownloadProtect with the help of reputable anti-virus software that specializes in PUPs. Merely download and install anti-malware tool, and run a full system scan. Some of the AV engines use names like PUA/DownloadProtect.Gen7 or PUP.Optional.DownloadProtect.ChrPRST for this PUP detection.
Very important: to make sure DownloadProtect removal is successful, you need to make sure you reset Google Chrome browser completely! Once again, you will find all the details below.
Uninstall from Windows
Uninstall from Windows 10/8:
- Type Control Panel into the Windows search box and open the result.
- Under Programs, select Uninstall a program.
Uninstall from Windows 7/XP:
- Click on Windows Start > Control Panel (Windows XP users should click on Add/Remove Programs).
- In Control Panel, select Programs > Uninstall a program.
Remove the unwanted program:
- In the Programs and Features window, look for any recently installed suspicious entries, select them, and click Uninstall.
- If User Account Control appears, click Yes to confirm, then complete the removal.
Delete from macOS
Remove the unwanted application:
- From the menu bar, select Go > Applications.
- In the Applications folder, look for any suspicious entries, then drag them to Trash (or right-click and pick Move to Trash).
Delete leftover files and folders:
- Select Go > Go to Folder.
- Enter /Library/Application Support and remove any suspicious folders related to the unwanted program.
- Repeat the same check in the /Library/LaunchAgents and /Library/LaunchDaemons folders, deleting any suspicious entries.
- Finally, empty the Trash to permanently remove the leftovers.
Remove from Google Chrome
Delete malicious extensions from Google Chrome:
- Open Google Chrome, click on the Menu (three vertical dots at the top-right corner) and select More tools > Extensions.
- In the newly opened window, you will see all the installed extensions. Uninstall all suspicious extensions related to the unwanted program by clicking Remove.
Clear cache and web data from Chrome:
- Click on Menu and pick Settings.
- Under Privacy and security, select Clear browsing data.
- Select Browsing history, Cookies and other site data, as well as Cached images and files.
- Click Clear data.
Change your homepage:
- Click menu and choose Settings.
- Look for a suspicious site in the On startup section.
- Click on Open a specific or set of pages and click on three dots to find the Remove option.
Reset Google Chrome:
If the previous methods did not help you, reset Google Chrome to eliminate all the unwanted components:
- Click on Menu and select Settings.
- In the Settings, scroll down and click Advanced.
- Scroll down and locate Reset and clean up section.
- Now click Restore settings to their original defaults.
- Confirm with Reset settings.
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