The joy of purchasing a new device is liberating. Now you can work, learn, and play faster β along with enjoying ample storage space. So, the last thing youβd expect is your apparently safe device being exposed to vulnerabilities, or βbloat.βΒ Β
Exposure to unwanted software can derail its performance and hog its storage within a few months of usage. In technical terms, such pieces of software are referred to as bloatware. Bloatware has the potential to attack PCs with Microsoft systems and Android devices. It can also attack Apple iPhones and Macs although their systems tend to be built with a bit more protection.Β Β
This article defines bloatware, offers common examples, explains how to identify it, and discusses its impact on your computerβs security.Β Β
Bloatware, also called Junkware or Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUP), are third-party programs that slow down the performance of your device and lay it bare to cybersecurity risks.Β Β
Manufacturers initially introduced bloatware to provide users with more utility, but the programs led to device issues. Software programs that identify as bloatware run in the background, and locating them is not childβs play.Β Β
Bloatware finds its way into your device in two ways: it comes pre-installed or through programs downloaded from the internet. Lenovoβs Superfish bloatware scandal from 2015 explains how bloatware can harm your devices.Β Β
Common examples of bloatware apps include: Β
As a piece of good advice, it is best to uninstall such apps when of no use β whether on your Android smartphone, Windows computer, or an iOS device.Β
Performance degradation is a common symptom of a device carrying bloatware. Extended boot-up times, clogged storage, and startup delays are common occurrences. Letβs review some programs that may also be bloatware:Β
Hereβs how to identify bloatware:Β
As mentioned, not all bloatware is a threat to your device. Some may be useful and can be removed easily. But a major chunk of bloatware is known to slow down your computer.Β Β
Bloatware eats up a good chunk of the disk space or hard drive as it runs in the background, and it drains the battery life. Bloatware that isnβt removed quickly may clog your device with annoying ads. These ads can pose a security threat or even corrupt your operating system.Β Β
Sadly, it can be a challenge to uninstall bloatware because it finds its way back into the device β sometimes even after it has been deleted. In some cases, it may even redirect you to fake bloatware removal websites and offer malicious removal tools. Such websites ask you to install a new program to remove the previous one, trapping your device further. Unfortunately, there are no secret hacks to stop it from finding a way into your system.Β
Pro tip: Anytime you download a program or software, be sure itβs from an official source (like a secured website, the Google Play Store, or the Apple App Store). Installing a program from a suspicious website can put your device at risk, as the program can download bundles of other programs on the back end without your knowledge.Β Β
Windows 10 comes with a special refresh tool to remove any bloatware disguised as user-installed programs. This tool can bring your PC back to a clean slate. Itβs important to check your hard drive beforehand, as it can also remove licenses.Β Β
Bloatware can be both harmful and annoying. New devices need full-fledged protection so they can last longer. The answer to your bloatware woes is an antivirus program. It safeguards your computer from dangerous security threats and prevents accidental downloads, so malicious bloatware or malware canβt access your device.Β Β
Bloatware can compromise your online safety and security. McAfee+βs protection package is the ideal investment for your new device, so you can work without any hassles or doubts. Β
McAfee+ enables a top-tier level of online security with full protection from pesky software programs like bloatware. Additionally, you get access to antivirus software for unlimited devices, lost wallet protection, a secure VPN, personal data clean-ups, and more. Sign up for McAfee + and rest easy while your devices remain bloatware-free.Β Β
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