What are browser helpers that may include adware or spyware and should be removed if unsigned?

The term "malicious add-ons" refers to unauthorized or harmful software components that can infect a user's browser. These can manifest as adware or spyware, which are types of software designed to collect user data or display unwanted advertisements. Unsigned add-ons are particularly concerning because they lack a digital signature, which is used to validate the source and integrity of the software. This lack of verification can indicate that the software may be unsafe or not from a reputable source.

Adware often tracks users' web activity to serve targeted advertisements, while spyware collects personal information without consent. Therefore, any add-on that is unsigned and appears to have these malicious characteristics should be removed to help maintain the security and privacy of the user's data and browsing environment.

Plug-ins, extensions, and cookies each serve different purposes within a browser environment but do not inherently represent the same risks associated with malicious add-ons. Plug-ins typically aid in media playback or loading specialized content, extensions provide various functionalities to enhance user experience, and cookies are small pieces of data used to remember information about user sessions. However, the security implications surrounding unsigned malicious add-ons make it crucial to identify and remove them to safeguard user systems effectively.