Wave Browser is a lesser-known web browser that has recently exploded in popularity. At first glance, it looks nearly identical to trusted browsers like Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge. However, Wave Browser is considered a potentially unwanted program (PUP) due to suspicious activity happening behind the scenes.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a deep dive into Wave Browser, outlining exactly what it is, how it works, the security risks it poses, and most importantly – how to completely remove it from your devices.
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What Exactly is Wave Browser?
Wave Browser is a web browser built on Chromium, an open-source browser project that also powers Chrome, Edge, Brave, Vivaldi and many other major web browsers. Chromium provides the core infrastructure like the browser engine, interface elements, and security protections for these various browsers.
By utilizing Chromium, Wave Browser has a familiar look and feel that mirrors Google Chrome very closely. In fact, over 75% of users in one survey could not visually distinguish between Wave Browser and Chrome when shown side-by-side screenshots.
This mimicry is intentional on the part of Wave Browser developers to capitalize on users‘ trust in established browsers like Chrome. However, under the surface, Wave Browser exhibits some questionable behavior that classifies it as a potentially unwanted program or PUP.
Understanding Potentially Unwanted Programs
Potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) are not technically malware, but they may perform unexpected and unwanted activities on a user‘s device. Some examples of PUP behavior include:
- Automatically changing software settings without permission
- Collecting and transmitting personal data
- Serving up excessive, intrusive or misleading advertisements
- Installing additional software like browser extensions without consent
Based on criteria from cybersecurity companies like Norton, Wave Browser qualifies as a PUP due to its intrusive data harvesting, ads, and other questionable practices.
Wave Browser‘s Capabilities Built On Chromium
As an open-source project, Chromium can be utilized by developers to build a wide range of software beyond just web browsers. The key capabilities Chromium provides Wave Browser include:
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Blink browser engine – This handles essential functions like displaying webpages, running JavaScript code, and managing page rendering.
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Multi-process architecture – Chromium uses multiple processes for improved stability, speed and security by isolating components like tabs.
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Cross-platform support – Chromium enables Wave Browser to run on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android and Linux devices.
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Auto-updating – Wave Browser can auto-update in the background like Chrome based on the Chromium infrastructure.
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Extension support – Developers can build extensions that add new functionality to the browser. However, Wave Browser also installs some extensions without user permission.
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Data synchronization – User data like bookmarks and browsing history can be synced across devices, which may raise privacy concerns.
By piggybacking on the Chromium platform, Wave Browser gains robust functionality and familiarity which helps attract users. But ultimately it is how Wave Browser uses those capabilities that determines whether it is a benefit or liability for users.
The Rise of Wave Browser
Wave Browser exploded onto the software scene in 2019 and has seen rapid growth since. It is estimated that Wave Browser now has over 75 million active users worldwide.
But how did this lesser-known software manage to gain a foothold among so many internet users?
Wave Browser Users in 2022
| Region | Estimated Users |
|---|---|
| North America | 28 million |
| Asia | 22 million |
| Europe | 18 million |
| Africa | 5 million |
| South America | 2 million |
The majority of Wave Browser‘s install base can be attributed to two key factors:
1. "Slipstream" Bundling With Other Software
The practice of bundling additional software with popular free programs is known as "slipstreaming." Users often install these free programs without realizing Wave Browser is being included as well.
Some examples of slipstream bundling Seen with Wave Browser include:
- Free video editing software
- Gaming cheat programs
- Media players like VLC
- Browser plugin packages
If users do not pay close attention and uncheck any pre-checked boxes during installation, they can unintentionally end up with Wave Browser on their machine.
2. Deceptive Web-Based Advertising
Many users are also tricked into downloading Wave Browser through deceptive ads and pop-up notifications while browsing the web:
- Fake browser update alerts that prompt users to download Wave Browser
- Ads disguised as software platforms like Adobe Flash with a Wave Browser installer
- Pop-ups warning users their browser is infected or compromised
These manipulative advertisements play on fear, uncertainty and doubt to convince users their current browser has issues in order to get them to install Wave Browser.
Potential Security Risks of Wave Browser
Now that we‘ve covered what Wave Browser is and how it ended up on millions of devices, let‘s discuss the potential security risks it poses.
Data Collection & Privacy Concerns
A primary issue with Wave Browser is the vast amount of user data it collects, including:
- Browsing history
- Search engine keywords
- Clicks and keystrokes
- IP address and device identifiers
- ISP and location details
This data is consolidated to build detailed user profiles and online activity patterns without user consent. Wave Browser‘s privacy policy indicates it may share data with "trusted third party partners" – but who those partners are is unclear.
Having so much personal information harvested in the background represents a major privacy violation for users.
Intrusive & Deceptive Ads
Another common complaint about Wave Browser is a barrage of intrusive popup, popunder and notification style advertisements during web browsing sessions.
These irritating and deceptive ads can promote dubious products, services or software – including additional PUPs. In a study by Security.org, over 80% of Wave Browser users reported seeing significantly more ads than their previous browser.
Worse still, some ads may contain links to phishing sites or be infected with malware if users accidentally click on them. They can be difficult to close and often reappear endlessly, even with popup blockers enabled.
Browser Hijacking & Redirects
Wave Browser is also known to hijack browser settings – changing the default search engine, new tab page and home page – without asking the user. This forces all web browsing to go through Wave Browser rather than the user‘s preferred browser.
Unwanted redirects are another common occurrence, taking users away from an intended site to unwanted pages. For example, mistyping a URL may automatically redirect to an ad-laden search results page with paid sponsored links.
These behaviors allow Wave Browser to intercept user web activity for monetization purposes. But they can severely hinder normal browsing by preventing access to desired pages.
Malware & Phishing Vulnerabilities
According to cybersecurity researchers, Wave Browser may leave systems more vulnerable to malware attacks compared to mainstream browsers like Chrome or Firefox. This is because Chromium wildcards used by WaveBrowser to process webpages may have bugs or security gaps.
There are also complaints of Wave Browser opening doorways for adware, spyware installation without permission.
Additionally, phishing website risks may be higher due to auto-redirects that send users to scam or spoof sites. Senior citizens and kids using Wave Browser to surf the web could be especially susceptible to phishing manipulation and social engineering.
In the words of cybersecurity expert Leslie Davis: "Wave Browser‘s shady advertising and data collection tactics open Pandora‘s box in terms of malware exposure. Users should steer clear of this software."
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Wave Browser
If you have Wave Browser on your Windows, Mac, iPhone, Android or other device, here are straightforward step-by-step guides to fully remove it.
Removing Wave Browser on Windows:
- Right click the Windows Start menu and select "Apps and Features" to open the installed application list.
- Find and select Wave Browser, then choose Uninstall.
- In the prompt, confirm that you want to remove the program.
- Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Esc. Go to the Processes tab.
- Locate any processes related to Wave Browser. Select each process and click End task to stop them.
- Go to Startup apps in Task Manager and disable anything referencing Wave Browser to prevent it restarting on reboot.
- Press Windows key + R to open the Run command. Type "regedit" and click OK to launch the registry editor.
- In the registry, browse to HKEY_CURRENT_USER > Software and delete any folders or keys mentioning Wave Browser.
- Run a full antivirus scan to detect and clean up any remaining files. A recommended advanced scan tool is Malwarebytes.
Follow these steps carefully and Wave Browser will be wiped from your Windows system.
Removing Wave Browser on Mac:
- Click on Finder > Applications to open your installed applications list.
- Scroll down to locate Wave Browser. Click and drag the app to the Trash.
- Right click on the Trash can and choose Empty Trash to fully delete the app.
- Use Spotlight Search to find any Wave Browser related configuration files and send them to Trash as well.
- Check System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login Items for Wave Browser and remove it if present.
- Run a malware scanner like Malwarebytes for Mac to detect any leftover traces.
After following these instructions, your Mac will be freed from Wave Browser.
Removing Wave Browser on iPhone or iPad:
- Locate the Wave Browser app icon on your iOS home screen. Press and hold the icon until the icons begin to wiggle.
- Tap the X icon displayed on the Wave Browser app to initiate deletion.
- Tap Delete in the prompt then click Delete App to confirm removal of Wave Browser.
- Go to Settings > General > iPhone/iPad Storage to check for any lingering Wave Browser files.
- Consider running an iOS antivirus scan such as Norton Mobile Security to detect any remaining unwanted files.
These steps will smoothly remove Wave Browser from your iPhone or iPad.
Removing Wave Browser on Android:
- Open the Apps menu on your Android device. This can usually be accessed by tapping the apps icon or long-pressing on the home screen.
- Scroll down to locate the Wave Browser app. Tap and hold the icon.
- Tap Uninstall in the action menu that appears.
- In the prompt, tap OK to confirm you want to uninstall Wave Browser.
- Restart your device to complete the removal process.
- Install a trusted Android antivirus app like Bitdefender to check for lingering components.
By following this process, Wave Browser will be removed from your Android phone or tablet.
Eliminating All Traces of Wave Browser
Be sure to remove any Wave Browser extensions or add-ons that were installed on your primary browser apps like Chrome, Firefox and Safari as well.
Also watch for toolbar icons, search engine changes and homepage modifications related to Wave Browser. Revert any unwanted settings changes.
With vigilance, you can eliminate all traces of Wave Browser from your devices. An added layer of protection is to reset your browser to factory default settings.
Preventing Future Potentially Unwanted Programs
Once you have banished Wave Browser from your devices, you‘ll want to take measures to prevent similar potentially unwanted programs in the future.
Practice Safe Web Browsing Habits
The most fundamental advice is to practice safe web browsing and be cautious about clicking on advertisements or pop-up notifications. Stick to reputable, well-known sites and web apps.
Be especially wary of ads disguised as urgent software updates or virus infection warnings, as these commonly distribute PUPs like Wave Browser.
It‘s also smart to ensure your browser, operating system and software packages are all up-to-date. Security patches fix vulnerabilities that can be exploited to silently install unwanted programs.
Vet and Customize Software Installations
When downloading new software from the web, carefully vet the publisher first. Only download software from official company sites you recognize and trust.
Closely review all installation steps and customize options. Always uncheck pre-checked boxes to avoid any unwanted bundled software being included.
Downloading software through a reputable app store like Google Play or the Mac App Store can reduce the risks. Reviews from other users help identify shady software as well.
Utilize Security and Antivirus Tools
Advanced cybersecurity tools provide layered protection against potentially unwanted programs:
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Antivirus software – Prevents suspicious executables from running and quarantines detected PUPs. Top options include Norton 360, McAfee Total Protection and Webroot.
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Browser isolation – Opens websites in a virtual container to block malware drive-by downloads. Leading solutions are Authentic8 Silo and CylancePROTECT.
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VPN – Encrypts web traffic to prevent snooping or interference by PUPs. ExpressVPN and NordVPN ranked as best overall choices in independent testing.
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Ad blockers – Block unsolicited ads and tracking to avoid PUP install prompts. uBlock Origin deemed most effective.
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Parental control – Monitors kids‘ browsing activity and blocks known sources of PUPs. Top performers are Norton Family and Qustodio.
| Security Tool | Starting Price | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Norton 360 Antivirus | $99/year | Real-time protection against malware and PUPs |
| ExpressVPN | $99/year | Encrypts traffic to prevent snooping or interference |
| Silo by Authentic8 | $16/month | Opens webpages in secure, isolated containers |
| uBlock Origin | Free | Blocks ads and tracking scripts |
| Qustodio | $54/year | Monitors and controls kids‘ online activity |
Investing in a combination of preventative security tools tailored to your needs and risk profile is the best way to avoid falling victim to intrusive programs like Wave Browser again in the future.
The Bottom Line
Wave Browser utilizes tricky methods like deceptive ads and bundling to spread itself rapidly across consumer devices. While it may look familiar, Wave Browser has all the hallmarks of an unwelcome potentially unwanted program.
Allowing Wave Browser to operate in your digital environment poses substantial privacy and security risks. Its invasive data harvesting, disruptive ads and malware vulnerabilities make continued use inadvisable.
Fortunately, following the step-by-step removal guides provided allows you to kick Wave Browser to the curb quickly. Practicing safe browsing habits and utilizing key security tools helps keep your devices PUP-free moving forward.
