How To Remove Share This Adware From Your Computer

Share This adware represents a common but unwanted software experience for many computer users. This potentially unwanted program (PUP) typically infiltrates systems through deceptive installation methods and can result in intrusive online advertisements. Understanding how Share This operates and the steps necessary to remove it is essential for maintaining a clean and efficient computer system. This article provides comprehensive guidance on identifying, removing, and preventing Share This adware infections based on verified removal instructions and security best practices.

What Is Share This Adware

Share This is classified as adware or potentially unwanted software that infiltrates computer systems and causes unwanted behavior. According to security documentation, this program generates intrusive online advertisements while users are browsing the Internet. Adware like Share This operates by displaying pop-ups, banners, and other commercial content that can disrupt the user experience and potentially expose users to further security risks.

The primary characteristic of Share This is its ability to insert advertisements into web pages that users visit. These advertisements may appear as highlighted text, pop-up windows, or banners that can significantly degrade browsing performance. In addition to being annoying, these advertisements may sometimes lead to further unwanted software installations or potentially malicious websites.

Adware programs typically collect certain types of data to deliver targeted advertisements. While the specific data collection practices of Share This are not detailed in the available documentation, it is common for such programs to track browsing habits, search queries, and potentially other identifiable information to tailor advertisements to user interests.

How Share This Adware Is Installed

Understanding the installation methods of Share This is crucial for prevention. The documentation indicates that careless download and installation of freeware frequently results in adware or malware infections. Share This is typically distributed through bundled software installers that users may encounter when downloading free applications from the Internet.

The deceptive installation process often occurs when users rush through installation steps without carefully reviewing each screen. Many freeware applications bundle additional software, including adware like Share This, as a way for developers to monetize their free products. These bundled offers may appear as pre-checked options that users must manually deselect to avoid installation.

To avoid installation of Share This or similar PUPs, users are advised to be attentive when downloading free software and never accept installation of any additional programs offered during the setup process. The documentation specifically recommends selecting 'Custom' or 'Advanced' installation options when installing downloaded software, as these installation modes typically reveal all bundled applications and allow users to decline their installation.

Manual Removal Steps

For users who prefer to remove Share This adware manually, the documentation provides specific instructions. The manual removal process involves two main steps: uninstalling the Share This application using the Control Panel and then removing any associated browser extensions or add-ons.

Step 1: Uninstall Share This Application Using Control Panel

The first step in manually removing Share This is to uninstall the application through the Windows Control Panel. This process varies slightly depending on the operating system version but generally follows these steps:

1. Open the Control Panel. This can typically be accessed by searching for "Control Panel" in the Windows search menu.
2. Navigate to "Programs and Features" (in Windows 10/11) or "Add or Remove Programs" (in earlier versions).
3. Look for Share This or any recently installed unfamiliar programs in the list of installed applications.
4. Select the suspicious program and click "Uninstall" or "Remove."
5. Follow the prompts to complete the uninstallation process.

It's important to note that while this step removes the main Share This application from the system, it may not eliminate all traces of the adware. Browser extensions, add-ons, and other components may remain and require additional removal steps.

Step 2: Remove Browser Extensions and Reset Settings

After uninstalling Share This from the Control Panel, users should inspect their web browsers for any remaining components. The documentation does not provide detailed instructions for this step, but typically it involves:

1. Accessing the browser's extensions or add-ons management page
2. Looking for and removing any suspicious extensions related to Share This
3. Resetting browser settings to default to eliminate any modifications made by the adware
4. Clearing browsing data, including cookies and cache

Since the documentation doesn't specify the exact process for removing browser components, users may need to consult their specific browser's help documentation for detailed instructions on managing extensions and resetting settings.

Automatic Removal Options

For users who find manual removal challenging or prefer a more comprehensive solution, automatic removal tools are available. The documentation recommends Combo Cleaner, a professional automatic malware removal tool specifically designed to eliminate malware, including adware like Share This.

According to the provided information, Combo Cleaner offers a 7-day free trial for users to evaluate the product before purchasing a full license. The automatic removal process typically involves:

1. Downloading the Combo Cleaner application from a reputable source
2. Installing the software following the on-screen instructions
3. Running a full system scan to identify all instances of Share This and other potential threats
4. Following the prompts to remove detected threats

The documentation suggests that automatic removal might be preferable for users who are not comfortable with manual processes, as it can identify and eliminate all components of the adware in a single operation. This approach is particularly recommended for users who may have multiple adware infections or lack confidence in their technical abilities.

Prevention Tips

Preventing Share This adware infections is more straightforward than removing them after they've infiltrated a system. The documentation provides several key recommendations for avoiding adware installations:

1. Be Selective When Downloading Software: Only download software from reputable sources. Official developer websites and well-known app stores are generally safer than third-party download sites.

2. Read Installation Carefully: Always pay attention during installation processes, especially when installing freeware. Look for any pre-checked boxes that may indicate additional software will be installed.

3. Choose Custom or Advanced Installation: These installation options typically reveal all bundled applications and allow users to deselect them. Avoid using the "Quick" or "Recommended" installation methods, which often hide these options.

4. Keep Software Updated: Ensure that your operating system and all applications are kept current with the latest updates, as these often include security patches that can prevent malware infections.

5. Install Reputable Security Software: Using a reliable antivirus or anti-malware program can help detect and block adware installations before they occur.

6. Exercise Caution with Pop-ups and Ads: Avoid clicking on suspicious pop-ups or advertisements, especially those offering free software or system scans. These are often vectors for malware distribution.

By following these preventive measures, users can significantly reduce their risk of Share This adware infections and maintain a more secure computing environment.

Conclusion

Share This adware represents a common but unwelcome experience for computer users who inadvertently install it through bundled software. While the adware primarily causes annoyance through intrusive advertisements, it can also degrade system performance and potentially pose security risks.

The manual removal process involves uninstalling the application through the Control Panel and then addressing any remaining browser components. For users who prefer a simpler solution, automatic removal tools like Combo Cleaner offer a comprehensive approach to eliminating adware infections.

Prevention remains the most effective strategy against Share This adware. By practicing cautious downloading habits, carefully reviewing installation options, and maintaining updated security software, users can avoid these unwanted intrusions altogether.

For those who already have Share This installed on their systems, prompt removal is recommended to restore normal browsing performance and prevent potential security issues. The combination of manual removal techniques and automatic tools provides options for users of varying technical comfort levels to address adware infections effectively.

Sources

1. MailerLite - How to Send a Freebie Lead Magnet to New Subscribers
2. PCRisk - Share This Adware Removal Guide
3. Aeolidia - Grow Your Business With Freebies
4. Lauren Leader Studio - How to Deliver Freebies Resources to Your Audience
5. Apple Support - Shared Library Information
6. Carachace Blog - No More Freebies Email List