What Is the Wave Browser? Do You Have It and Should You Remove It?

At a Glance

In this article, we’ll take a look at Wave Browser. I’ll explain how this seemingly harmless web browser is also like having a virus installed on your computer. While Wave Browser may appear to be benign, it has gained a reputation for sneaky installation tactics, privacy violations, and so. many. ads!

We’ll take a look at the hidden risks of Wave Browser, why it’s dangerous to your online privacy, and how to reclaim your online privacy and security if your sensitive personal information has already been exposed to it.

What is the Wave Browser?

Wave Browser bills itself as a secure browsing tool. However, the application is actually considered to be adware, or potentially unwanted software (PUP). While Wave Browser may be based on the open-source Chromium browsing engine (just like Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge), the browser is even more of a privacy and security risk than both of its better known relatives.

The Wave Browse is quite intrusive. The browser openly tracks its users’ browsing habits, serves up more ads than you would normally see, and even alters your browser settings without asking the user’s permission. Perhaps worst of all, the Wave Browser is often bundled with other suspicious applications, leading to unintended installation, and spur difficulty in removing it from all of your computer’s nooks and crannies.

It’s due to the above threatening behaviors that Wave Browser is generally considered a privacy and security hazard, above and beyond any actual web browsing advantage that it may claim to offer.

Just How Dangerous is the Wave Browser?

Wave Browser can be mistaken for a legitimate web browser. This is due to the several convincing measures the browser employs to convince users that it’s a safe browser to use. In reality, the browser bombards them with extra ads, while also exposing users to adware, malware, and possible data theft.

Wave Browser’s deceptive measures include but are not limited to:

• The Wave Browser interface is built on Chromium source code, making it subconsciously reassuring because the well-known browser Google Chrome is also based on Chromium.
• The browser comes with a lengthy privacy policy, which if someone merely skimmed could trick them into believing the browser developer really takes user privacy seriously. However, by digging a bit deeper into the policy, you’ll see that the browser harvests a load of personal data.
• The official Wave Browser website looks quite professional.

Dangers of Having the Wave Browser Installed

If you have already installed Wave Browser, there are several dangers to keep in mind:

• Unwanted exposure – Wave Browser tracks your browsing activities, collecting a treasure trove of personal user data, making you vulnerable to potential privacy violations.
• Malware threats – While Wave Browser itself might not be malicious, the browser allows ads and pop-ups that could link to malicious sites, malware, and adware.
• Intrusive ads – The browser is infamous for serving up unwanted ads, pop-ups, and redirects. These are not only annoying, but they can also spread malware, viruses, and other malicious code.
• System issues – Wave Browser puts a heavy load on your computer’s resources, due to its adware components and resource usage, meaning it can slow down your system.
• Bundled software – When you install Wave Browser, you’re likely unknowingly installing other software that could lead to unpleasant surprises down the line.
• Unauthorized changes – Wave Browser changes your browser settings without your permission. This includes changing your default search engine and homepage. It can also make it difficult to revert these changes.

How Do I Know If the Wave Browser Has Been Installed?

There are ways to determine if you already have Wave Browser installed on your computer or mobile device. Just follow the easy instructions listed below. In the next section, I’ll tell you how to delete Wave Browser if it is installed on your device.

1. Check your installed programs

The first way to check your computer or mobile device for a Wave Browser installation is to check installed programs. Here’s how to do that:

On Windows:

1. Open Control Panel.
2. Go to: “Programs” -> “Programs and Features.”
3. Search the list for “Wave Browser” (the list of apps is in alphabetical order by default).

On macOS:

1. Open macOS Finder.
2. Open the Applications folder.
3. Search for “Wave Browser” in the Applications folder (the list of apps is in alphabetical order by default).

On Android:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll down until find the “Apps” or “Applications” option. Tap on it.
3. Scroll through the list of installed apps to find “Wave Browser” (the list of apps is in alphabetical order by default).

These instructions can vary, depending on which version of Android you have installed on your device.

For iOS:

1. Swipe left or right on your device’s home screen to view each page of installed apps. Don’t forget to check the folders. You can also swipe down from the middle of the home screen and enter “Wave” on the iOS search screen.
2. If you find the app icon. it’s installed on your device.
3. If your iPhone or iPad has iOS/iPadOS 14 or later, you can also check the App Library by swiping left on your home screen.
4. Search for “Wave Browser” in the App Library.

2. Check your browser extensions

Wave Browser also has the ability to install a browser extension in your browser.

1. Open your primary web browser.
2. Open the extensions or add-ons section. In the Google Chrome browser, look for a puzzle piece icon in the upper right-hand corner of the browser window. Click on that.
3. Look for any extensions that indicate the presence of “Wave Browser” or that seem suspicious. You can also enter “Wave” in the search field of the Extensions page.

3. Check for unusual system behavior

Wave Browser can also give away its existence by causing your device or your browser to demonstrate unusual behavior. This behavior can include:

• Suddenly realizing that your default search engine has been replaced by another search engine. This indicates that Wave Browser has changed your default browser without your consent or that it may have installed a browser hijacker.
• Unusual or unfamiliar apps or shortcuts that seem to be installing themselves from out of the blue.
• You may begin seeing several pop-up ads while browsing, which is a common giveaway of adware.
• You may find that your browser is constantly redirecting you to other websites.
• You may experience slowed performance or sluggish response times on your mobile device or computer. This is because Wave Browser may be running in the background, eating up processor cycles and system resources.

How Can I Remove the Wave Browser From My Device?

While the Wave Browser can dig its claws into your mobile or desktop device, with a bit or persistence you can remove it.

Windows

There are multiple ways to remove Wave Browser from your Windows device.

Uninstall it from the Control Panel:

1. Open Control Panel.
2. Go to: “Programs” -> “Programs and Features.”
3. Search the list for “Wave Browser” (the list of apps is in alphabetical order by default).
4. Click on Wave Browser. Press the three-dot icon beside it and select Uninstall.

Remove it from the Task Manager:

1. Right-click on the Windows taskbar to open Task Manager. You will see a list of all the apps and processes running in the background.
2. Scroll through the list and find any processes related to Wave Browser. Right-click on those processes and left-click on “Open file location” in the pop-up menu that appears.
3. Delete everything inside the browser’s folder.
4. Go back to Task Manager and right-click the “Wave Browser” process again and left-click on “End task” in the pop-up menu that appears.
5. Repeat the last two steps for each process connected to Wave Browser.
6. Go to the “Startup Apps” tab in Task Manager. Any name that could be associated with Wave Browser, select it, then click “Disable.”

Registry Editor Procedure:

1. Press the Windows key and the letter R simultaneously to open the Run window function (or right-click the Windows Start Button and left-click “Run” in the pop-up menu that appears). Type in “regedit” in the empty field and press the big “OK” button.
2. Once the Registry Editor loads, simultaneously press the “CTRL” key and the “F” key to open a search window. Type in “wave” and then select “Find next.”
3. Delete any files related to Wave Browser that are found in the Registry Editor.

Remove the Wave Browser extension:

1. Open your primary web browser.
2. Open the extensions or add-ons section. In the Google Chrome browser, look for a puzzle piece icon in the upper right-hand corner of the browser window. Click on that.
3. Look for any extensions that indicate the presence of “Wave Browser” or that seem suspicious. You can also enter “Wave” in the search field of the Extensions page.
4. Disable or remove any extensions related to Wave Browser.

macOS

If you need to remove Wave Browser from your macOS device, here’s how:

Delete Wave Browser from Applications:

1. Open macOS Finder.
2. Navigate to the “Applications” folder.
3. Find Wave Browser on the list of installed applications.
4. Drag the icon to the Trash.
5. Empty the Trash to make sure Wave Browser is uninstalled.

Remove its Browser Extension:

1. Open your primary web browser.
2. Open the extensions or add-ons section. In the Google Chrome browser, look for a puzzle piece icon in the upper right-hand corner of the browser window. Click on that.
3. Look for any extensions that indicate the presence of “Wave Browser” or that seem suspicious. You can also enter “Wave” in the search field of the Extensions page.
4. Disable or remove any extensions related to Wave Browser.

Android

Uninstall from Settings:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Scroll down until find the “Apps” or “Applications” option. Tap on it.
3. Scroll through the list of installed apps to find “Wave Browser”  (the list of apps is in alphabetical order by default).
4. Tap on it and select “Uninstall.”

To ensure it’s deleted:

1. After uninstalling, go to Settings.
2. Tap Storage or Storage & cache.
3. Search for Wave Browser and clear its data and cache.

These instructions can vary, depending on which version of Android you have installed on your device.

iOS

Delete from the home screen:

1. Swipe left or right on your device’s home screen to view each page of installed apps. Don’t forget to check the folders. You can also swipe down from the middle of the home screen and enter “Wave” on the iOS search screen.
2. If you find the app icon. it’s installed on your device.
3. If your iPhone or iPad has iOS/iPadOS 14 or later, you can also check the App Library by swiping left on your home screen.
4. Search for “Wave Browser” in the App Library.
5. Press and hold the app icon until it starts shaking (or quivering it’s up to you).
6. Tap on the “-” in the corner of the app icon or the Remove app option to delete it.
7. Confirm it by pressing the Delete app option.

How to clean your device after removing Wave Browser

Deleting the Wave Browser on your device or browser and its associated files is just the first step towards making sure all traces of the PUP is completely removed from your device. After deleting Wave Browser, follow the steps below to ensure that no residual files or background processes are sticking around (you won’t need to do this on your iPhone or iPad):

1. Scan for malware

Using a trustworthy antivirus or anti-malware program, run a full and deep system scan on your device. Delete any detected threats to ensure that none of the malicious software payload is left behind.

2. Clean temporary files

Clear your device’s temporary files to remove any leftover data. On Windows and macOS, use system tools like Disk Cleanup on Windows or CleanMyMac on the Mac, or just manually clear the Caches folder on macOS. On Android, you can clear cached data through your device’s storage settings. Perform a second system scan to make sure all of the residual files and caches are gone for good.

3. Reset your web browser’s settings

Ideally, you should restore your web browser to its default settings to wipe any changes made by Wave Browser. Access the settings or preferences menu in your browser and find the option to reset settings to default or factory settings. Confirm the reset to clear any modifications.

WARNING: This will reset your browser startup page, your new tab page, your default search engine, and all of your pinned tabs. It will also disable all of the extensions you have installed, as well as clear temporary data like cookies. Your bookmarks, history, and saved passwords will all remain intact.

4. Clear browser data

Ensure that all browser data is cleared to eliminate any lingering traces of Wave Browser. In Google Chrome, open your browser settings and click “Privacy and security,” then click the option to “Delete Browsing data.” Tick boxes next to history, cookies, and cache data to remove them all. Be sure NOT to tick “Passwords and other sign-in data,” as you’ll lose your cookies.

How Can I Protect Myself From Wave Browser and Other Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUP)?

Protecting your desktop or mobile device against Wave Browser and other potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) is an important part of keeping it running strong and free of security and privacy issues. While it’s easy for bad apps like Wave Browser to sneak back into your systems, there are proactive ways to safeguard your systems.

• Use only reputable security software – Only install and use a reputable antivirus or anti-malware program to detect and block PUPs. Make sure to turn on auto-updates or manually update these types of apps on a regular basis. This keeps your system protected against new threats. Enable real-time protection and schedule or manually perform regular system scans.
• Download and install apps only from trusted sources – Only download and install software from trusted sources, including official websites and other trusted sources. Avoid third-party sites that could bundle PUPs with legitimate software. Always be wary of “free” access to commercial software.
• Use caution with installing and using freeware – While there are several fine freeware applications out there, nothing is truly free. Many times, “free” software will include malicious or nosy apps that spread malware or track users. During installation, carefully read each option of each step and always opt out of any additional software or similar options.
• Enable your browser’s security features – Keep your browser locked down and protected by enabling your web browser’s security features, including pop-up blockers and warnings for potentially harmful websites. Many browsers have ad and tracker blocking built-in or are available via reputable tools.
• Perform regular system updates – Always keep your OS, browsers, apps, and other software updated on a regular basis. This ensures that your system will benefit from the latest security patches and features.
• Review browser extensions – Periodically check your browser extensions or add-ons and remove any that you don’t recognize or that you no longer use.
• Practice safe browsing habits – Always be cautious when clicking on links, especially if the link is in emails or in text messages, or on unfamiliar websites. Never open email attachments from unknown sources.
• Read user agreements – Always carefully read user agreements and privacy policies when installing new software. This allows you full knowledge of what you are agreeing to (you could be agreeing to give up your first-born child or beloved pet).
• Carefully research the company behind an app – Carefully research the company behind the software you’re planning to install. By doing a bit of digging on the web, you’ll be able to confirm that the developer is trustworthy. Always read user reviews and check out their social media presence for more information.

I will not claim that the above-listed practices will 100% protect you from PUPs like Wave Browser. However, it does significantly reduce the risk of exposure to such apps, helping to keep your device safe from harm.

In Conclusion

As we’ve seen, detecting and cleaning your devices’ potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), like Wave Browser, helps to keep a secure and healthy computing device. While PUPs may be less dangerous than traditional viruses and malware, it can be stealthier and quite difficult to fully remove.

By only installing apps and browser extensions from reputable sources and maintaining safe browsing habits, you can avoid PUPs and other online perils. Keep your software and operating systems updated, you’ll benefit from updates that include new security and privacy updates.

Wave Browser FAQs

Which Browser Should I Use?

There are several browsers out there that are safer than Wave Browser. I suggest using one of these browsers, listed in no particular order:

• Brave
• Tor
• Opera
• Firefox
• Chrome
• Safari (macOS, iOS, and iPadOS only)

Would a VPN Block the Wave Browser?

A VPN by itself cannot protect you against the Wave Browser. However, a VPN does protect you against being tracked and recorded on the internet. Plus, some VPNs also include malware and virus protection, as well as blocking trackers and ads. This will help you detect whether you have the Wave Browser installed.

Is Wave Browser Considered to be Malware?

Wave Browser is not considered to be malware. However, it is considered a potentially unwanted program (PUP), as it poses an indirect risk to your privacy and security and it exhibits intrusive behavior.