Online Document Converters adware (virus) - Free Guide
Online Document Converters adware Removal Guide
What is Online Document Converters adware?
Online Document Converters is a browser extension with adware capabilities
Online Document Converters is a dubious browser extension used by crooks to generate revenue. It is promoted as a handy tool that can convert files quickly and easily. Instead, it acts as adware[1] and causes an increased amount of commercial content, like pop-ups, banners, and redirects.
Unfortunately, fraudsters may use rogue advertising networks that place ads leading to dangerous websites. As a result, people can end up on scam pages that try to trick them into providing personal information, downloading PUPs (potentially unwanted programs),[2] and even malware.
Although the name and the advertising of the plugin insinuate that it should help convert documents, there are no such functions. There is no reason to keep this application installed on your machine, especially because it raises many user privacy and security concerns.
NAME | Online Document Converters |
TYPE | Adware |
SYMPTOMS | Annoying pop-ups and other types of advertisements start appearing on the screen |
DISTRIBUTION | Shady websites, deceptive ads, freeware installations |
DANGERS | Links embedded in the ads might lead to dangerous websites |
ELIMINATION | Eliminate the extension through your browser settings; scanning the machine with anti-malware tools is recommended |
FURTHER STEPS | Use FortectIntego to get rid of any remaining damage and to optimize the machine |
Use only official app stores
Crooks use multiple channels to spread their applications. However, most of the time people get infected with bogus extensions through fake downloader pages or “official” promotional websites created by fraudsters. There, they boast about all the non-existent functions and try to convince users to press the “Download” button.
That is why it is best to use official app stores. Apps that get listed there, have to go through an extensive review process. However, users should be responsible for their own security and always do their research – read the reviews look at the ratings, and the number of users.
In some cases, apps like Online Document Converters can appear without the users' knowledge. That can happen when using freeware distribution platforms. They include additional programs in the installers and do not disclose it clearly. You should pay attention during the installation process.
Always choose the “Custom” or “Advanced” installation methods, read the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. The most important step is to check the file list and untick the boxes next to any unrelated applications. Even though you may see prompts that state the additional programs are useful – pay no mind to it as most of them are designed to monetize user activity.
Remove Online Document Converters adware
Online Document Converters adware can be removed by going to the browser settings and looking at the extension list. We recommend removing plugins one by one to see if you notice any changes.
How to prevent from getting adware
Choose a proper web browser and improve your safety with a VPN tool
Online spying has got momentum in recent years and people are getting more and more interested in how to protect their privacy online. One of the basic means to add a layer of security – choose the most private and secure web browser. Although web browsers can't grant full privacy protection and security, some of them are much better at sandboxing, HTTPS upgrading, active content blocking, tracking blocking, phishing protection, and similar privacy-oriented features. However, if you want true anonymity, we suggest you employ a powerful Private Internet Access VPN – it can encrypt all the traffic that comes and goes out of your computer, preventing tracking completely.
Lost your files? Use data recovery software
While some files located on any computer are replaceable or useless, others can be extremely valuable. Family photos, work documents, school projects – these are types of files that we don't want to lose. Unfortunately, there are many ways how unexpected data loss can occur: power cuts, Blue Screen of Death errors, hardware failures, crypto-malware attack, or even accidental deletion.
To ensure that all the files remain intact, you should prepare regular data backups. You can choose cloud-based or physical copies you could restore from later in case of a disaster. If your backups were lost as well or you never bothered to prepare any, Data Recovery Pro can be your only hope to retrieve your invaluable files.
- ^ Adware. Malwarebytes. Cybersecurity Basics.
- ^ Potentially unwanted program. Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
- ^ Dusan Vasic. What Are Cookies? The Good and the Bad of Browser Cookies. Dataprot. Security Solutions.