MapsScout

When we add new extensions to our browsers, we usually expect them to provide us with a particular service. What would a user want from MapsScout? Probably a relevant ad. But then again, how many of us enjoy seeing commercial ads when we browse the web? Probably not that many. So the essence of this entry is that it is necessary to remove MapsScout from your browser if you do not want to be flooded with random ads. Luckily, it is quite easy to remove this extension, but you should remain vigilant because there might as well be more potentially unwanted programs installed on your PC.

Judging from the name of the extension, MapsScout makes an impression that it should provide you with some information about maps and locations. However, when we tried adding this extension to our virtual machine, we have found that it was more prone to displaying commercial ads rather than providing us with the latest navigation tips. So it is quite clear that the main objective of this extension is to make a financial profit by promoting third-party content. Is this malicious or illegal? Definitely not. Is it annoying and potentially risky? Very much so.

The main security problem associated with such applications like MapsScout is the fact that it does not review the commercial it promotes. In other words, anyone could embed their content in the ads that this program displays, and if that anyone is a malware developer, you might accidentally click a link that redirects you to something malware-related. Needless to say, a malware infection is the worst-case scenario in this situation (for the most part, MapsScout merely needs your clicks to boost website traffic on a number of pages), but it would be near-sighted to overlook it.

The best way to protect your PC from such threats is to avoid programs like MapsScout altogether. To avoid them, you need to know how they spread around. Potentially unwanted programs like these seldom hide themselves. To be more precise, they hide in plain sight.

What we mean is that such programs often have official websites out there, and MapsScout is no exception. You can access the website via mapsscout.com, although it is very doubtful whether you will find a lot of useful information out there. This extension is compatible with Chrome, Firefox, and Internet Explorer, so it has a section at the Chrome Web Store, too. With this, it looks like the program is reliable and useful. But the possibilities of users finding this application just like are very slim. Hence, hiding in plain sight. And what’s more, rather than using the official distribution methods, these programs usually travel in software packages, redirects, and pop-ups.

So even if you do not download MapsScout from its official website, you can still encounter it on a number of websites that distribute freeware or host a lot of pop-up ads. Whenever you download freeware apps, you need to read the installation wizard carefully because it might inform you about the additional apps or features that it carries. If one of those features MapsScout, it should be possible to deselect it.

As far as random pop-ups are concerned, you would still have to agree to add this extension to your browser even if the pop-up automatically tries to install it. So please be careful about the buttons you click, and always read what any prompt has to tell you. Just because it might look familiar, it doesn’t mean you should trust it blindly or simply brush it off.

We have mentioned already that it is easy to remove MapsScout. You can delete the extension via your browser’s settings if you use Firefox or Chrome. For Internet Explorer, you can uninstall the app via Control Panel. If you think that there might be more unwanted applications added to your system, you can always scan your PC with the SpyHunter free scanner.

However, please bear in mind that a licensed security scanner is not enough to protect your system from harm. You should also employ safe web browsing habits to avoid adding unwanted apps in the future. Should you need more tips on computer security and Internet safety, do not hesitate to leave us a comment.

How to Delete MapsScout

Chrome

1. Press Alt+F and open More tools.
2. Go to Extensions and remove MapsScout.

Firefox

1. Press Alt+T and select Add-ons.
2. Click the Extensions tab and remove MapsScout.

Internet Explorer

1. Press Win+R and enter Control panel. Press OK.
2. Go to Uninstall a program (Add or remove programs for Windows XP).
3. Uninstall MapsScout from the list.