How to remove RelevantKnowledge adware (2023)
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Akvilė Tamašiūnienė
Editor
If you keep getting intrusive ads or unwanted pop-up questionaries on your device, you might have RelevantKnowledge installed. The program itself is not malicious, however, most of the time, it gets inside the device without the user's consent.
Luckily, there is an easy way to remove it from your device – by using a trusted antivirus program. It will not only remove unwanted adware but will also protect your device from future threats.
Failing to address the RelevantKnowledge potentially unwanted program (PUP) can jeopardize your device's efficiency and the security of your personal data. In this article, we'll explore the risks posed by RelevantKnowledge and provide comprehensive steps to eradicate it.
What is RelevantKnowledge?
RelevantKnowledge is software designed with one primary motive: to track and understand your online habits. Developed under the guise of market research, its real intent often slides under the radar: gathering user data to package and sell off to third parties.
RelevantKnowledge adware often hides within free software installations. So, when you click "I agree" when installing a new free app, you often unknowingly allow additional installations you’re not actually aware of.
While it isn’t inherently malicious, RelevantKnowledge PUP sure doesn't respect personal boundaries. If you come across questionnaires about your browsing behaviors popping up, or suddenly getting bombarded with pop-up ads marked with a "Powered by RelevantKnowledge" tag, you can be certain it’s the RelevantKnowledge adware installed on your device.
| Name | RelevantKnowledge, Ads by RelevantKnowledge |
| Type | Adware, PUP |
| Affected devices | Mainly Windows, rarely macOS |
| Symptoms | Pop-ups asking questions about browsing habits, other pop-up ads |
| Damage | Unpleasant browsing experience, decreased browser’s speed |
Similar scam or malware examples
Navigating the online world might sometimes feel overwhelming and quite confusing, especially when you need to agree with lots of terms and conditions when downloading software. Just like RelevantKnowledge, there are other sneaky programs out there, that get installed into your device without your direct consent.
- Take the Ask Toolbar, for example. It presents itself as this helpful tool for your browsing needs, but before you know it, it's changed your browser's settings and is keeping an eye on where you're clicking.
- Then there's the Fireball. Think of it as that sneaky vendor who not only convinces you to buy a trinket but slips in a few unwanted extras in your bag. It’s not just about the ads; it’s the added risk of unwanted software sneaking onto your device.
It’s always best to be careful about what you’re downloading or clicking on online, especially when it's free software. A quick check before downloading can save a lot of headaches later on.
Why am I seeing RelevantKnowledge pop-ups?
Uninvited guests in the tech world, like the RelevantKnowledge adware, often emerge due to oversight or subtle digital loopholes we tend to miss. But how exactly does it get on your device?
- Bundled downloads. The internet is a goldmine for free software, but not every freebie is a genuine gift. Many third-party platforms or torrent sites bundle primary software with add-ons. The user, while focusing on the main software, inadvertently agrees to install these 'extras.' RelevantKnowledge takes advantage of this, finding its way onto systems masked within the main software.
- Browser extensions. The web browser can sometimes be the very bridge for adware. Extensions, promising a range of functionalities from ad-blocking to video downloading, can sometimes hide malicious intent. Hidden within these extensions, adware components settle into your digital space.
- Malvertising and pop-ups. Flashy ads promising something too good to be true or pop-ups that persistently urge you to update software can be deceptive traps. Clicking on them might initiate an unintended download, bringing along unwanted software like RelevantKnowledge.
How to get rid of RelevantKnowledge
RelevantKnowledge isn't just another application; it's an unwelcome intruder that silently collects data about your online activities. It's not malicious in the traditional sense, but its sneaky behavior can be a cause for concern. Continue reading to learn how to get rid of RelevantKnowledge adware.
Remove RelevantKnowledge with antivirus automatically
You can remove RelevantKnowledge easily and effectively using a trusted antivirus software. Here’s what you need to do:
- Choose a reliable antivirus software and purchase a subscription. We strongly recommend TotalAV
- Download and install the antivirus app on your device
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Run a full system scan
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Take additional steps if the software asks
Remove suspicious browser extensions manually
Often, adware sneaks in the guise of seemingly harmless browser extensions. Here's how to clean them out:
Chrome
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Click on the 3 vertical dots located at the upper right corner
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From the dropdown, select Extensions, followed by Manage Extensions. This will display all your current extensions
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Carefully check for any suspicious extensions and remove them by clicking the Remove button
Firefox
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Look for the puzzle piece icon in the top right corner and click on it
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As with Chrome, you will see a list of extensions. Remove if there’s anything suspicious by clicking on the cog and choosing Remove Extension
Remove unwanted or suspicious applications manually
Direct browser interference isn't the only tactic of adware. Sometimes, they embed themselves as standalone applications on your device. Here’s how to remove them:
Windows PC
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Click on the Search menu and start typing Remove, and the system will suggest to Add or remove programs. Click on it
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In the Apps & features section, check if you spot any unfamiliar applications or those you don't recall installing. Select the suspicious application and click Uninstall
Reset your browser
When the going gets tough, sometimes, the best way forward is to hit the reset button. However, be aware: this method will wipe your personal configurations.
Chrome
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Access the settings by clicking the 3 vertical dots on the top right
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Scroll through the options and select Settings
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On the left-hand side, find the option Reset settings and click on it
- A prompt will appear, asking for confirmation. Click Reset settings to their original defaults and confirm it
Firefox
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Click on the three lines at the top right corner (burger menu), and select Help
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Navigate to More troubleshooting information and click on it
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In the new window, click on Refresh Firefox and confirm it
How can I protect my device from RelevantKnowledge adware?
RelevantKnowledge is one of many forms of potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) that users encounter. While it's not as malicious as a typical virus, it's a nuisance and can invade your privacy. With the rising sophistication of digital threats, it's paramount to protect your device. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to do just that:
- Install antivirus and enable real-time protection. Modern antivirus software, such as TotalAV, can identify and eliminate a broad range of threats, including adware and spyware. Real-time protection ensures your device is constantly scanned and any suspicious activity is flagged or blocked immediately before it does any harm.
- Be wary of suspicious applications and extensions. Do thorough research before installing any application or extension. Reviews and ratings can be revealing. If you're uncertain about an app, check it out on platforms like VirusTotal. It scans the software with multiple antivirus engines to ensure it's clean.
- Act carefully with downloads. Stick to reputable sources. While it’s tempting to get software for free or at a discount, unofficial sources are breeding grounds for malware. If you must download from a less trustworthy site, always opt for a custom installation. This way, you can deselect bundled software, a common way PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) get into devices, and avoid installing malicious files disguised as legitimate updates like a compromised GoogleUpdate.exe.
- Don’t skip the Terms of Service. It's easy to click “I agree” without a second thought, but sometimes, that’s where PUPs, like RelevantKnowledge, hide. By checking, you can be aware of any bundled software and opt-out.
- Beware of clickbait and dubious links. Anything that sounds too good to be true probably is. If you receive an unsolicited email urging you to click a link or download a file, even if it appears to be from someone you know, verify it before taking action. Cybercriminals are known to impersonate familiar contacts.
Conclusion
Having RelevantKnowledge adware installed on your device can be not only annoying because of all the pop-ups, but it might also endanger your privacy.
However, removing RelevantKnowledge from your device is straightforward. For quick and effective removal, it’s best to use robust and trustworthy antivirus software, such as TotalAV. Or you can follow the step-by-step instructions to do it manually. Either way, you’ll be able to clear your device in no time, just remember to take preventative steps in the future.
More antivirus guides from Cybernews:
How to remove 'Your iPhone is severely damaged' pop-up scam: a detailed guide
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How to remove Apple security alert virus: protect your Apple products
FAQs
Is RelevantKnowledge a virus?
No, RelevantKnowledge is not a virus. It’s classified as a potentially unwanted program (PUP) or adware. While it's not a virus in the traditional sense, it can be intrusive and unwanted due to its data collection methods.
Can RelevantKnowledge harm my computer directly?
No, RelevantKnowledge itself does not damage your computer hardware or software. However, it can slow down your browser and potentially introduce other unwanted software. To prevent this from happening, we suggest using TotalAV.
Do I need professional help to remove RelevantKnowledge?
No, you don’t need professional help to remove RelevantKnowledge, but we do advise doing so with an antivirus software, like TotalAV. Most users can also remove RelevantKnowledge by following the manual steps, which involve checking browser extensions and installed programs.
Will regular antivirus software detect PUPs like RelevantKnowledge?
Yes, many modern antivirus solutions can detect and remove PUPs, including RelevantKnowledge. For this, we strongly recommend the robust TotalAV antivirus service.
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