[go: up one dir, main page]

How To Delete AdBlock 360: The Fake Ad Blocker That Is Really Malware

Learn how to delete AdBlock 360, a realistic-looking ad blocker that’s actually a fake front for spyware, malware, and other unwanted, potentially harmful programs.
We receive compensation from the products and services mentioned in this story, but the opinions are the author's own. Compensation may impact where offers appear. We have not included all available products or offers. Learn more about how we make money and our editorial policies.

AdBlock 360 is a fake ad blocker that you should avoid. It pretends to be security software but instead infects your device with false information and potentially dangerous programs.

If you’ve already installed it, don’t worry. Below, we walk you through how to delete it and protect yourself in the future.

In this article
What is AdBlock 360?
How do I remove AdBlock 360?
Protect yourself from fraudulent extensions and malware
FAQs
Bottom line

What is AdBlock 360?

AdBlock 360 is a fake ad blocker extension that can install malware on your computer. It’s available for download in the Chrome Web Store and even has an official-looking website. It actually blocks some ads, which leads to some good reviews on the Chrome Web Store.

In reality, though, it installs harmful malware onto your device.

This is how AdBlock 360 invades your device:

  • It shows ads for fake software
  • Ads appear in weird places
  • Website links take you to an unexpected site
  • There are browser pop-ups for software downloads or fake updates
  • It installs software without your knowledge or permission
  • It slows down your system

How do I remove AdBlock 360?

To remove the malware, you’ll need to remove the extension and clean your device. You can manually remove the extension, and a reliable antivirus should be able to clean all of AdBlock 360’s leftover components.

Below are breakdowns of how to remove the extension from various browsers:

Remove AdBlock 360 from Chrome

  1. Open Chrome.
  2. Click the three dots in the upper right corner of your browser to get the Menu.
  3. Click More Tools.
  4. Click Extensions.
  5. Find AdBlock 360.
  6. Click Remove.
  7. Use your antivirus to scan your computer for AdBlock 360 remnants.

Remove AdBlock 360 from Firefox

  1. Open Firefox.
  2. Click the Menu icon in the upper-right corner.
  3. Click Help.
  4. Click Troubleshooting Information.
  5. Click Refresh Firefox in the upper right corner.
  6. Click Refresh Firefox again in the confirmation window.
  7. Click Finish to initiate changes.
  8. Use your antivirus to scan your computer for AdBlock 360 remnants.

Remove AdBlock 360 from Safari

  1. Open Safari.
  2. Locate the Safari Menu at the top left of the screen.
  3. Click Settings.
  4. Navigate to the Extensions tab.
  5. Find AdBlock 360.
  6. Click Uninstall.
  7. Use your antivirus to scan your computer for AdBlock 360 remnants.

Remove AdBlock 360 from Edge

  1. Open Edge.
  2. Click the three dots in the upper right corner of your browser to get the Menu.
  3. Click Settings.
  4. In the left-side menu bar, click Reset Settings.
  5. In the main window, click Restore Settings To Their Default Values.
  6. Click Reset when prompted.
  7. Use your antivirus to scan your computer for AdBlock 360 remnants

Protect yourself from fraudulent extensions and malware

The internet is full of malware, and it’s easy to pick up if you don’t have the correct preventative measures enabled. Downloading files from unofficial sites is a top way to get an infection, but it’s not the only way. Since Chrome’s security is so lacking, it frequently lets bad actors put up malware-infested extensions and downloads in the Chrome Web Store.

It’s best to do an internet search before installing any extensions or downloads to see if others have had issues with the program. You can also check out our testing for recommendations on the best software in whatever category you need.

The best way to protect yourself is to use the best anti-malware software and have several security measures in place. Our recommendations include:

4.8
Antivirus Software
TotalAV
  • Real-time protection from viruses, malware, and online threats
  • Blocks tracking cookies and ads, proactively monitors for data breaches, and option to schedule smart scans
  • 100% compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS operating systems on up to 3 devices
  • Lacks firewall protection
Learn More

FAQs


+

Are free ad blockers worth it?

Free ad blockers can sometimes be worth it. Software like uBlock Origin has been around for a long time and has been verified as secure. If you want to use free software, ensure you’ve properly researched it to ensure it’s legit.


+

Do I need an ad blocker for each browser I use?

Since ad blockers tend to come as browser extensions, you’ll likely need to install one on every browser you use. Luckily, paid ad blockers usually have broad compatibility. You’ll need to purchase your chosen ad blocker only once and then install it on all compatible browsers.


+

Can I delete malware myself?

Yes, technically, you can delete malware yourself, but you’ll need to know not only what you’re looking for but also what exact files contain the malware. Since there’s a variety of reputable paid and free antivirus software available, there’s really no need to risk deleting an important file or function on your computer by removing malware manually.

We recommend only manually deleting malware if you are 100% confident that you know what you’re doing and won’t delete something essential.

Bottom line

Products like AdBlock 360 are confusing because they appear to come from legitimate sources, like the Chrome Web Store, but they can actually plague your device. If you downloaded AdBlock 360, you can easily remove it using the steps we listed above.

You can protect yourself in the future by using the best ad blockers that we have vetted and tested. With practice, you’ll be able to avoid malicious software and keep yourself safer in the future.

Best Basic Adblocker — Including YouTube Video Ads
4.9
Editorial Rating
Learn More
On Total Adblock's website
Ad Blocker
Total Adblock
Special deal: Save 80% off
  • Instantly blocks distracting ads on millions of websites, including YouTube video ads
  • Blocks third-party trackers to protect your privacy and information
  • Improves page load times and enables faster browsing

Author Details
Mary is a seasoned cybersecurity writer with over seven years of experience. With a B.S. in Liberal Arts from Clarion University and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from Point Park University, she educates audiences on scams, antivirus software, and more. Her passion lies in educating audiences on helpful ways to protect their data.