Get Rid of Pop-Ups: A Comprehensive Guide

Pop-up advertisements have been around for quite a while. They are pesky adverts that can pop up while browsing online. These adverts can be frustrating since they slow down browsing speed and give users an unpleasant experience. This article will dive into how to get rid of pop-ups and stop them from bothering you again. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Close Pop-Up Windows

The first thing to do when you encounter a pop-up window is to close it. Click on the “x” or use the escape button on your keyboard to close the window. Avoid clicking on any buttons or links on the pop-up window since it can cause more pop-ups to appear.

Tip:

• Don’t click on any of the pop-up windows as it can activate more adverts or even a virus

Step 2: Use a Pop-Up Blocker

The most effective way to stop pop-ups is by using a pop-up blocker. Pop-up blockers can be built into your browser or can be downloaded as an extension. These blockers block pop-ups on web pages and prevent them from showing up on your screen.

Tip:

• Avoid downloading untrusted pop-up blockers or any suspicious extensions since they can harm your computer
• Ensure that your pop-up blocker is turned on. Check your browser settings and turn on the pop-up blocker if it is not activated

Step 3: Clear Cookies and Cache

Pop-ups can be caused by caches and cookies in your browser. Clearing cookies and cache can reduce the frequency of pop-ups. To clear cookies and cache, follow the following steps:

1. Open your browser
2. Click on the three dots on the upper-right corner of the screen
3. Select Clear browsing data or History depending on your browser
4. Select the time range and check the boxes for cookies and cache
5. Click on Clear data to finalize

Tip:

• Clearing cookies and cache can also boost your browsing speed and should be done regularly.

Step 4: Disable JavaScript

Disabling JavaScript can also reduce pop-ups. Follow these steps to disable JavaScript:

1. Open your browser
2. Click on the ‘three dots’ on the upper-right corner of the screen
3. Select Settings or Options
4. Select Privacy and Security or Content Settings
5. Select the ‘JavaScript’ option
6. Toggle Allow JavaScript switch to turn off JavaScript or selectively block certain websites from using JavaScript

Tip:

• Disabling JavaScript may affect a website’s functionality
• Do not disable JavaScript on trusted websites such as banking sites.

Step 5: Update Your Browser and Software

Pop-ups can occur due to outdated software or an old browser version. Keep your browser and software up to date by following these steps:

1. Open your browser
2. Click on the ‘three dots’ on the upper-right corner of the screen
3. Select Help or About
4. Check for updates and download the latest version
5. Restart your browser or computer to finalize the update

Tip:

• Regularly update your software and browser to stay protected from viruses and malware.

Step 6: Use Anti-Virus Software

Pop-ups can be a sign of virus or malware infections. Use an anti-virus software to scan your computer and remove any threats. Upgrade your anti-virus software regularly and keep it up to date for maximum protection.

Tip:

• Use only trusted anti-virus software from reliable sources
• Stay vigilant when downloading files or software to avoid downloading a virus.

Step 7: Set Your Browser to High Security

Setting your browser to high security can prevent pop-ups and other unwanted adverts from showing up. Follow these steps:

1. Open your browser
2. Click on the ‘three dots’ on the upper-right corner of the screen
3. Select Settings or Options
4. Select Privacy and Security or Content Settings
5. Turn on the Block third-party cookies setting
6. Turn on Safe Browsing Protection

Tip:

• Be cautious when browsing with high-security settings because some websites may not load properly.

Step 8: Block Pop-Ups on Your Phone

Pop-ups can also appear on mobile devices. Here’s how you can block them on your phone:

1. Open your mobile browser
2. Tap the three dots on the upper-right corner of the screen
3. Select Settings
4. Tap on Site settings or Privacy and Security depending on your browser
5. Select Pop-ups and redirects and turn on the Block Pop-ups switch

Tip:

• Mobile browsers can be more susceptible to malware and viruses, so frequently update your antivirus application.

Step 9: Do Not Click on Suspicious Links

Most pop-ups are triggered by clicking on suspicious links or adverts. Avoid clicking on links that are fake or suspicious. Some scam links can be disguised with pop-up windows that look like an authentic part of the website.

Tip:

• Always hover over a link before clicking on it to ensure that it is legitimate.
• Do not click on adverts or links that promise quick rich solutions or government grants since they can be traps to get access to your personal information

Step 10: Do Not Download Untrusted Software

Downloading untrusted software can cause pop-ups and other advertising problems. Only download software that is from a trusted source. Research before downloading any software and ensure it doesn’t have lousy reviews or online complaints.

Tip:

• Read reviews of software before downloading to avoid downloading malicious content that can harm your computer
• Download software from reliable sites such as Microsoft Store or Apple Store, to avoid malware and viruses.

Step 11: Disable Flash Player

Flash Player is a software that enables websites to play media such as videos and audio files. Pop-ups and malware can be hidden in these media files. Disabling Flash Player can prevent these downloads.

Tip:

• Many browsers have currently disabled Flash Player
• If you do need to use Flash Player, ensure that the version you are using is up to date.

Step 12: Use Ad-Blocking Extensions

Ad-blocking extensions help prevent unwanted ads from popping up. Many ad-blocking extensions are free and can be downloaded to your browser as an extra layer of protection.

Tip:

• Ad-blocking extensions do block some legitimate ads, so be aware that your favorite websites might ask you to whitelist them.

Step 13: Block Pop-ups on Safari

Safari is a web browser that comes pre-installed in Apple devices. Pop-ups can be blocked on Safari by following these steps:

1. Open your Safari Browser
2. Go to Settings
3. Toggle the Block Pop-ups switch on

Tip:

• Available for iOS 9 and above

Step 14: Block Pop-ups on Firefox

Firefox is a browser that can be installed on computers or mobile devices. Pop-ups can be blocked on Firefox by following these steps:

1. Open your Firefox Browser
2. Click on the ‘menu icon’ on the upper-right
3. Select Options or Preferences
4. Select Privacy & Security
5. Select Block Pop-up Windows and toggle on the switch

Tip:

• Firefox users should update their versions frequently to protect systems from viruses and malware.

Step 15: Block Pop-ups on Edge Browser

Edge is a Microsoft browser that comes pre-installed on Windows 10 devices. Pop-ups can be blocked on Edge by following these steps:

1. Open your Edge Browser
2. Click on the ‘three horizontal dots’
3. Select Settings
4. Toggle Block pop-ups switch on

Tip:

• Edge is only available on Windows 10 devices

Step 16: Block Pop-ups on Google Chrome

Google Chrome is a browser that dominates the browser market share. Pop-ups can be blocked on Chrome by following these steps:

1. Open your Chrome Browser
2. Click on the ‘three-dot’ Menu button located at the top right-hand corner of your browser
3. Select Settings
4. Click on Privacy and Security
5. Select Site Settings
6. Scroll to Permissions and select Pop-ups and redirects
7. Toggle the Block (recommended) switch on

Tip:

• Google Chrome updates automatically to ensure security and protect against vulnerabilities.

Step 17: Adjust Security Settings on Internet Explorer

Internet Explorer is a Microsoft browser that can be installed on Windows devices. Pop-ups can be blocked on Internet Explorer by following these steps:

1. Open your Internet Explorer Browser
2. Click on the ‘gear’ Settings button located at the top right of your browser window
3. Select Internet Options
4. Select Privacy
5. Set the High-Level Security
6. Set the pop-up blocker to High or turn it on

Tip:

• Internet Explorer is Built into Windows, so it is already integrated into the operating system.
• Upgrade to the latest version of Windows 10 which has Microsoft edge as the new default browser

Step 18: Make Sure Windows is Up-to-date

Windows operating systems can be vulnerable to pop-ups. Keep your system up to date to keep your device secured. Ensure that Windows updates are turned on by following these simple steps:

1. Click on the ‘Start’ Menu button located on the bottom left of your screen
2. Select ‘Settings’
3. Click on ‘Update and Security’
4. Click on the ‘Windows Update’ tab
5. Turn on automatic updates

Step 19: Review Your Privacy Settings

Review your privacy settings to ensure that you are not sharing your information with malicious individuals. Ensure that your personal information, browsing history, and passwords are not being tracked. Follow these simple Privacy tips:

• Use a VPN when browsing the internet to keep your location and IP address hidden
• Always check the privacy setting on any software or apps you install.

Tip:

• Using a VPN can prevent hackers or third-party users from stealing your information

Step 20: Secure Your Router

Your router can also be a source of pop-ups. To ensure your home network is safe and secure, follow these simple steps:

• Change the default login credentials to ensure that you are the only one who can access your network.
• Secure your Wi-Fi network by changing the default SSID and enabling WPA3 encryption

Tip:

• Always enable a secure password for any wireless devices and applications, such as smart locks or security cameras.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a pop-up?

A pop-up is a window that appears automatically on a web page to display adverts. These windows can be intrusive and contribute to a slow browsing experience.

2. What are the most common reasons for pop-ups?

The most common reasons for pop-ups are cookies and cache, outdated software, and browser vulnerabilities. Pop-ups can also be caused by malware or viruses on the computer or smartphones.

3. Is it safe to download anti-virus software?

Yes, it is safe to download anti-virus software from trusted sources only. These software options are essential for protecting your computer from pop-ups, viruses, and other malicious software.

4. How do I know if a pop-up is legitimate or a scam?

If a pop-up seems fishy, it probably is. Look out for grammatical errors, suspicious website names, and if it promises something too good to be true. Common scams include fake virus alerts.

5. Do all browsers have pop-up blockers?

Most browsers come with a pop-up blocker. However, third-party pop-up blockers are also available to download on most popular web browsers.

Kesimpulan

Dealing with pop-ups can be a frustrating experience, but it is essential to handle them accordingly. The tips above can help you get rid of pop-ups and keep your computer safe and secure. To stay safe, ensure that you keep your software up-to-date, use anti-virus software, and practice safe browsing habits. By following these tips, your browsing experience should be free from pesky pop-ups.