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Malwarebytes: Is downloading their browser guard important?

Anonymous
2025-04-05T14:52:02+00:00

Hello,

I recently did a factory restore on my Windows 11 laptop because of fake McAffee pops up that eventually turned into fake red Microsoft warnings, and I would like to thank everyone who helped with suggestions. It turned out that @Melvin Klassen had real points about the pops ups being linked to my Microsoft Edge. While the McAffee stopped, a few days later the fake Microsoft warnings showed up, all from the same two websites. Which brings me to my present question:

I opted for doing a factory restore, and when I downloaded Malwarebytes, its program asked if I wanted their accompanying extension called Malwarebytes Browser Guard, which I declined because 1) I use Malwarebytes only occasionally while my Windows Defender is always on, and 2) I was hesitant to download an extension.

I can uninstall and reinstall Malwarebytes if advisors here think it's worth adding their Browser Guard.

Appreciate some opinions.

Thanks,

Daffy D

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Security and privacy

Locked Question. This question was migrated from the Microsoft Support Community. You can vote on whether it's helpful, but you can't add comments or replies or follow the question.

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  1. quietman7 MVP Alumni 19,735 Reputation points Volunteer Moderator
    2025-04-06T00:12:03+00:00

    Malwarebytes Browser Guard is a browser extension which heuristically identifies and blocks Tech Support Scams browser-lockers, blocks malicious websites, blocks clickbait links, blocks coin miners, blocks the downloading of potentially unwanted programs (including toolbars), filters out unwanted content, prevents pop-ups and browser hijackers.

    It is safe to use with your browser as added protection.

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  1. Paulo GM 63,705 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-04-05T17:21:52+00:00

    As far as I know, there are no drawbacks. The extension is intended to block ads, trackers, and potentially harmful websites. Installing it should not pose any issues, instead, it can provide an added layer of protection for your device.

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  1. Paulo GM 63,705 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-04-05T15:37:06+00:00

    Hi, I am Paulo and I'd like to help.

    If you're using Microsoft Edge, SmartScreen already provides sufficient protection. As long as you're cautious about the websites you visit and the files you download, the extension may not be necessary. However, if you'd like an extra layer of security, feel free to install the extension. You can always uninstall it later should you find it unnecessary.

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  2. Anonymous
    2025-04-05T17:03:17+00:00

    Thanks, Paulo, but are there downsides to installing their browser guard extension?

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  3. Anonymous
    2025-05-31T23:41:56+00:00

    It's a pretty solid adblocker that I always use. With that being said, some websites that don't like adblockers will detect it and make you turn it off to get to the website (Rotten Tomatoes, for example). Besides those few exceptions, it's a great tool.

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