What is a PUA (potentially unwanted application)?

Potentially Unwanted Applications (PUAs) are unwanted software programs that come bundled in legitimate free software programs as a package. These may also be called Potentially Unwanted Programs, or PUPs.

Most PUAs aren’t destructive, but some can cause very annoying behaviors, like generating pop up ads or causing your computer to run very slowly. These applications can negatively affect a computer’s performance and can even introduce security risks by exposing users to malvertising or compromising their data privacy.

How does a PUA (Potentially Unwanted Application) work?

Often embedded within free software, potentially unwanted programs will download and install themselves during the installation of a legitimate free software bundle. Because the PUAs arrive along with the End User License Agreement (EULA) that governs the bundled software, these unwanted programs are not generally considered full-blown malware.

Common PUAs

Adware

Adware is software that displays unwanted advertising on a computer or mobile device, usually in the form of pop-up ads, or by redirecting your browser to certain websites. While it typically isn’t outright malicious, it can be intrusive, affect performance, and may include tracking components or bundle additional unwanted programs. Some adware may even expose users to scam sites.

Browser hijackers

Browser hijackers are programs that modify browser settings without clear consent. They’re often used to display ads, change your homepage or search engine, or redirect traffic to specific websites. Some may also track your browsing activity or expose you to misleading or unsafe pages.

Spyware

Spyware is designed to monitor user activity. In the context of PUAs, this is usually “spyware lite,” designed to monitor browsing behavior or system information for advertising or data collection purposes, sometimes without clear consent. This can still put your personal data at risk if sensitive information is mishandled or breached.

Defend against malicious apps

While PUAs and PUPs may not be welcome, your device may be hosting far more intrusive “guests.” Malicious apps can steal sensitive personal data, monitor your activity with keyloggers, install additional threats, or give cybercriminals access to your device. And because some cyberthreats disguise themselves as legitimate software, it’s not always easy to tell the difference between an annoying PUA and full-blown malware.

Norton Antivirus Plus helps protect your device by detecting and blocking malicious applications in real time. With advanced security features designed to identify suspicious app behavior, it helps keep your device and personal information safer.