Simple Files Downloader extension does not function as promised because it was created to monetize user activity
Simple Files Downloader is a browser extension that claims to be able to help users quickly download multiple files from different websites. Unfortunately, it does not deliver the promised functions. Instead, this application was created by crooks to monetize user activity.
It can cause an increased amount of commercial content, like pop-ups, banners, and redirects. It might also change the main browser settings, like the homepage, new tab address, and search engine forcing users to browse only through selected channels. This raises many user privacy and security concerns.
The creators of the plugin may use rogue advertising networks[1] that place ads leading to dangerous sites. 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.
| NAME | Simple Files Downloader |
| TYPE | Browser hijacker |
| SYMPTOMS | Annoying pop-ups and other types of advertisements might start appearing on the screen; the main settings of the browser can change |
| DISTRIBUTION | Shady websites, deceptive ads, freeware installations |
| DANGERS | Links embedded in the ads might lead to dangerous websites; users are forced to browse only through selected channels |
| 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 |
Distribution methods
Usually, browser hijackers are spread through fake download pages that use social engineering methods. That is why it is best to avoid shady pages that are unregulated. Do not click on random links and ads even if they seem to be promoting legitimate products or services.
We recommend only using official web stores and developer websites. Apps that get listed on digital marketplaces have to go through an extensive review process. However, although it is rare, some hijackers can slip through the process. That is why you should always do your research.
Read the reviews, look at the ratings, and the number of users. Choose extensions that have plenty of positive reviews and thousands of users. It is also a good idea to read product descriptions fully, as crooks often make grammar or spelling mistakes.
Freeware installations
There is also a possibility that Simple Files Downloader appeared in your browser without your knowledge. That can happen through freeware installations. Freeware distribution platforms include additional programs in the installers without disclosing it clearly.
You should always choose the “Custom” or “Advanced” installation methods. Read the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use to find out what the program will be able to do on your machine. The most important part is to check the file list and untick the boxes next to any unrelated applications.
Remove Simple Files Downloader hijacker
Simple Files Downloader browser extension can be removed by going to the browser settings and looking at the extension list. You can use our guide if you need help:
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 the suspicious plugins that might be related to the unwanted program by clicking Remove.
MS Edge:
- Select Menu (three horizontal dots at the top-right of the browser window) and pick Extensions.
- From the list, pick the extension and click on the Gear icon.
- Click on Uninstall at the bottom.
MS Edge (Chromium)
- Open Edge and click select Settings > Extensions.
- Delete unwanted extensions by clicking Remove.
Mozilla Firefox
- Open Mozilla Firefox browser and click on the Menu (three horizontal lines at the top-right of the window).
- Select Add-ons.
- In here, select unwanted plugin and click Remove.
Safari
- Click Safari > Preferences…
- In the new window, pick Extensions.
- Select the unwanted extension and select Uninstall.
Protect your privacy
Almost all websites and web applications nowadays require you to accept cookies[3] by throwing a big prompt in your face obstructing the view. Frustrated, many just click “Accept” because they want to proceed as quickly as possible. Because you experienced pop-up spam without knowing, there is a big chance you were browsing through questionable sites that could still be tracking your browsing activity.
Cookies can store data such as the websites you visit, links you click on, things you type in the search, and what you purchase online. It can alter be sold to advertising networks or other third parties. We recommend using a repair tool like FortectIntego, which can automatically clear your browsers from cookies and cache, clear up space, fix corrupted files, system errors and optimize the performance of the device.
Scan your system with anti-malware tools
If you completed all the previous steps but you still experience unwanted symptoms, you should check your system for other PUAs. We suggest using SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes anti-malware tools that will scan your machine, eliminate it, and prevent such infections in the future by giving you a warning before a PUP can make any changes.
Manual removal of potentially unwanted programs can sometimes result in the renewal of the infection as users often fail to eliminate all the related files and entries. Besides, crooks often disguise them as “handy” tools so it can be difficult to identify them. If manual removal is what you still prefer, we have instructions for Windows and Mac machines:
Windows 10/8:
- Enter Control Panel into Windows search box and hit Enter or click on the search result.
- Under Programs, select Uninstall a program.
- From the list, find the entry of the suspicious program.
- Right-click on the application and select Uninstall.
- If User Account Control shows up, click Yes.
- Wait till uninstallation process is complete and click OK.
Windows 7/XP:
- Click on Windows Start > Control Panel located on the right pane (if you are Windows XP user, click on Add/Remove Programs).
- In Control Panel, select Programs > Uninstall a program.
- Pick the unwanted application by clicking on it once.
- At the top, click Uninstall/Change.
- In the confirmation prompt, pick Yes.
- Click OK once the removal process is finished.
Mac:
- From the menu bar, select Go > Applications.
- In the Applications folder, look for all related entries.
- Click on the app and drag it to Trash (or right-click and pick Move to Trash)
To fully remove an unwanted app, you need to access Application Support, LaunchAgents, and LaunchDaemons folders and delete relevant files:
- Select Go > Go to Folder.
- Enter /Library/Application Support and click Go or press Enter.
- In the Application Support folder, look for any dubious entries and then delete them.
- Now enter /Library/LaunchAgents and /Library/LaunchDaemons folders the same way and terminate all the related .plist files.
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