Tech Tip: Steer Clear of PUPs

Do a quick Google search on MacKeeper, MacAuto Fixer, Advanced MacCleaner, MyMac Updater, MacOSDefender, Combo Cleaner, CleanMyMac, Mac CleanUp Pro, and Mac Guard and it will be apparent that these programs have mixed reviews and may not quite be what they claim to be. These programs purport to assist you in speeding up your laptop and ‘cleaning’ it of unwanted malware, adware, viruses, etc. Unfortunately, they don’t really live up to the hype. There are so many versions of this ‘software’ because of a reputation for being PUP (Potentially Unwanted Programs). Software like this has actually been known to slow your system down, install one of those pesky browser hijackers, and carry other PUPs in their install bundle. You will usually see them offer assistance when some websites recognize you are on an Apple computer. They pop up in a very friendly manner and state, “I see your computer isn’t performing at its optimal level” or “Is your laptop slower than it should be?” If you are feeling sluggish, you may be inclined to take help from these seemingly nice folks. That is what they count on and are more than happy to offer you a free download of their software. Please be careful and avoid installing these ‘helpers’ if possible. If you find that you have inadvertently installed one of these programs removing them can be tricky.