Privacy SafeGuard

Privacy SafeGuard is a browser extension that is classified as adware because of the numerous complaints from computer users. Privacy SafeGuard is marketed as an extension that allows computer users to protect their privacy while browsing the net. However, several behaviors associated with Privacy SafeGuard have alerted PC security researchers that Privacy SafeGuard poses a risk. In fact, it may seem that Privacy SafeGuard is more interested in provoking unwanted behaviors on your computer in order to display advertisements than Privacy SafeGuard is about protecting your privacy.

Privacy SafeGuard is marketed as a browser extension that can be added to Firefox, Chrome or Internet Explorer. There are several reasons why ESG security researchers consider that Privacy SafeGuard may not be the legitimate privacy protection extension that Privacy SafeGuard claims:

1. Privacy SafeGuard makes unauthorized changes to your web browser settings, including modifying your default websites (such as your home page and default search engine).
2. Privacy SafeGuard is usually installed without the computer user's knowledge, often hidden away in a convoluted installer for a low-quality freeware application.
3. Privacy SafeGuard causes browser redirects and can affect legitimate search results, much like well-known browser hijacker infections associated with several known online scams.
4. Privacy SafeGuard may alter your search results to display advertisements and even track your online activity, the complete opposite of what Privacy SafeGuard claims to do – that is, protecting your online privacy!

Privacy SafeGuard will often be installed as part of the installation process of a freeware application from a third party. Although Privacy SafeGuard may not install malware itself, redirects associated with Privacy SafeGuard may lead you to websites containing malicious files that may make their way into your computer. To prevent future infections, ESG malware researchers strongly advise researching any browser extensions thoroughly before installing them on your computer and making sure to only download software directly from qualified vendors and software developers with a clean track record.