What is Prefs Secure?

Prefs Secure is detected as adware that connects to a remote host to transmit and receive unknown data. Once Prefs Secure is on a computer it will create a service named “Prefs Secure” that loads the C:\ProgramData\PrefsSecure\Nettrans.exe program.

Prefs Secure

The program is known to be responsible for showing overlaying ads, pop-up ads, banner ads, pop-under ads, and different styles of advertisements across popular internet browsers such as Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox. The adware is difficult to remove without the use of a malware removal program.

An additional concern with the adware is that it is typically advertised on websites that display malicious advertisements and host malware. If you found Prefs Secure adware installed on your computer it is likely that your computer was introduced to other threats such as PCVark that should be eradicated before they cause other complications.

Prefs Secure distribution procedures

Prefs Secure is usually distributed by adware bundlers. The adware bundlers will download and install the program in the background and without user consent or knowledge.

Adware bundlers used to distribute the program are commonly contracted in free downloadable content including freeware, torrent files, and similar content. The bundlers can are usually advertised as something they are not in order to trick victims into installing them which can lead to the infection of a variety of potentially unwanted programs and malware.

How to remove Prefs Secure (Removal Guide)

The Prefs Secure removal guide on this page will help you remove Prefs Secure adware from your computer. The steps will also show you how to remove other malicious threats that can install alongside Prefs Secure such as third-party malware, viruses, adware, and spyware.

STEP 1: Scan your computer for malware
STEP 2: Manually repair your browser settings
STEP 3: Manually uninstall programs
TIPS: Stay protected against future infections

STEP 1: Scan your computer for malware

The best way to remove Prefs Secure and other threats from your computer is to scan your computer for malware using Malwarebytes Anti-Malware and HitmanPro softawre. Malwarebytes and HitmanPro will locate and eradicate this threat and other malicious files installed on your machine automatically.

1. Download and Install Malwarebytes Anti-Malware software to run a scan and remove malicious files from your computer.

2. Once installed, open Malwarebytes and click the Scan Now button – or go to the Scan tab and click the Start Scan button.

3. When the Malwarebytes scan is complete click the Quarantine Selected button.

4. If Malwarebytes says “All selected items have been removed successfully. A log file has been saved to the logs folder. Your computer needs to be restarted to complete the removal process. Would you like to restart now?” click the Yes button to restart your computer.

5. Download and Install HitmanPro by Surfright to perform a second-opinion scan and remove any remaining malicious trace files.

6. Once installed, open HitmanPro and click Next to start scanning your computer. *If you are using the free version you may chose to create a copy or perform a one-time scan.

7. When the HitmanPro scan is complete click the Next button.

8. To activate the free version of HitmanPro: enter your email address twice and click the Activate button.

9. Click the Reboot button.

Your computer should now be completely free of Prefs Secure and other malicious files; However, you can still use the manual repair and uninstall instructions below if your browser settings have not been repaired or if you think an unwanted program is still installed on your machine.

STEP 2: Manually repair your browser settings

If your browser settings have been changed use these instructions to manually repair your settings.

How to remove extensions from Safari

STEP 3: Manually uninstall programs

If you are infected with adware and other unwanted programs you might be able to manually uninstall programs from your computer. Use these instructions to uninstall unwanted programs that may have installed on your machine. If you do not find a program installed on your machine make sure to scan your computer for malware using the instructions above.

TIPS: Stay protected against future infections

The key to staying protected against future infections is to follow guidelines and take advantage of reputable Antivirus and Anti-Malware security software with real-time protection.

Real-time security software

Security software like Malwarebytes and Norton Security have real-time features that can block malicious files before they get onto your computer. The 2 programs bundled together can establish a wall between your computer and cyber criminals in real-time; disallowing threats and hackers from getting onto your machine.

Guidelines

The guidelines listed below are a great way to help you maintain a safe environment and ensure that the files on your computer are intact.

Backup your computer and personal files to an external drive or online backup service
Create a restore point on your computer in case you need to restore your computer to a date before infection
Avoid downloading and installing apps, browser extensions, and programs you are not familiar with
Avoid downloading and installing apps, browser extensions, and programs from websites you are not familiar with – some websites use their own download manager to bundle additional programs with the initial download
Avoid visiting fake “spyware removal” blogs and websites that promote “spyware removal software.” These are usually malicious websites designed to phish your personal information, infect your computer with a rogue program and trick you into paying for rogue “spyware removal software.”
If you plan to download and install freeware, open source software, or shareware make sure to be alert when you install the object and read all the instructions presented by the download manager
Avoid torrents and P2P clients
Do not open email messages from senders you do not know