Watch Tower Overview Malware – Complete Removal Guide

Watch Tower Overview is a deceptive program classified as a potentially unwanted program (PUP) and browser hijacker that poses a serious risk to your system’s security. It often disguises itself as a helpful tool but secretly collects user data, injects advertisements, and exposes your computer to additional cyber threats. While it is not classified as a traditional virus, its intrusive activities and security risks make it essential to remove as soon as possible.

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Watch Tower Overview – Quick Threat Summary

Feature	Details
Threat Name	Watch Tower Overview
Threat Type	Browser Hijacker, Redirect Malware, PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program)
Detection Names	Adware.Generic, PUP.Optional.WatchTower, BrowserModifier:Win32/WatchTower
Symptoms of Infection	– Unwanted browser redirects – Homepage and default search engine changes – Excessive pop-up ads – Slow browser performance – Unauthorized software installations
Damage Potential	– Personal data tracking and exposure – Browser settings modification – Unwanted software downloads – Exposure to more dangerous malware threats
Distribution Methods	– Bundled software from unofficial websites – Fake software updates – Malicious advertisements and pop-ups – Third-party browser extensions
Danger Level	Medium

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How Did Watch Tower Overview Infect My Computer?

Watch Tower Overview typically spreads through software bundling, malicious advertisements, and fake updates. If you recently downloaded free software from an unofficial source, it may have included Watch Tower Overview as an additional component.

Common Ways It Spreads:

1. Bundled Software Installations
   • Many free programs come with extra software, often hidden in installation options.
   • Users who rush through installations may unknowingly allow Watch Tower Overview to be installed.
2. Fake Updates & Downloads
   • Clicking on deceptive pop-ups that claim to be necessary software updates can install malware.
   • Popular bait includes fake browser, Flash Player, or antivirus updates.
3. Malicious Advertisements
   • Clicking on suspicious ads, especially from untrusted websites, can trigger automatic downloads.
   • Many deceptive ads claim to offer “exclusive deals” or “important security warnings.”
4. Unwanted Browser Extensions: Certain browser extensions may secretly install hijackers like Watch Tower Overview.

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What Does Watch Tower Overview Do?

Once installed, Watch Tower Overview begins modifying your system in several ways:

Alters Browser Settings

• It changes your default search engine, homepage, and new tab page without permission.
• Redirects your searches to suspicious third-party websites filled with ads or phishing scams.

Displays Intrusive Pop-Up Ads

• You’ll see a huge increase in unwanted pop-ups, banner ads, and auto-play video ads.
• Ads may promote scam tech support services, fake giveaways, or malware-laden downloads.

Slows Down Your System

• Excessive background activities consume CPU and RAM, slowing down browsing speed.
• Webpages take longer to load due to injected ads and tracking scripts.

Tracks Your Online Activity

• Collects browsing habits, search history, and even personal information.
• Data may be sold to third parties or used for targeted ads.

Installs Additional Malware

• Watch Tower Overview can open the door to more dangerous malware, including trojans and ransomware.
• Clicking on redirects may expose you to phishing sites that steal login credentials.

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How to Remove Watch Tower Overview (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Uninstall Suspicious Programs

1. Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.
2. Look for Watch Tower Overview or any suspicious software you don’t recognize.
3. Select the program and click Uninstall.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your computer.

Step 2: Remove Watch Tower Overview from Browsers

Google Chrome

1. Open Chrome and go to Settings.
2. Click on Extensions and remove any suspicious ones.
3. Go to Search Engine settings and reset your default search provider.
4. Under Reset and Clean Up, click Restore settings to their original defaults.

Mozilla Firefox

1. Open Firefox and go to Add-ons > Extensions.
2. Remove any unfamiliar extensions.
3. Open Settings > Home and restore your default homepage.
4. Click Help > Troubleshooting Information and select Refresh Firefox.

Microsoft Edge

1. Open Edge and go to Extensions.
2. Remove any unwanted extensions.
3. Under Settings, go to Reset Settings and click Restore settings to their default values.

Step 3: Scan and Remove Malware with SpyHunter

To ensure all hidden traces of Watch Tower Overview are removed, use a trusted anti-malware tool like SpyHunter.

1. Download SpyHunter and install it on your system.
2. Open the software and click Start Scan Now.
3. Wait for the scan to complete and review the detected threats.
4. Click Fix Threats to remove Watch Tower Overview and related malware.

Step 4: Reset System Hosts File

1. Press Windows + R, type notepad C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts, and hit Enter.
2. Delete any unknown IP addresses at the bottom.
3. Save the file and restart your computer.

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Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Infections

1. Download Software Only from Trusted Sources: Avoid third-party download sites and always choose custom installation options to uncheck unwanted software.
2. Use a Reliable Antivirus Program: Install a reputable anti-malware tool like SpyHunter for real-time protection.
3. Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Ads: Never click on pop-ups or ads that promise free gifts, software updates, or security warnings.
4. Keep Your Operating System & Software Updated: Regular updates fix security vulnerabilities that malware exploits.
5. Limit Browser Extensions: Only install browser extensions from official stores (Chrome Web Store, Mozilla Add-ons, etc.).

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Conclusion

Watch Tower Overview is a deceptive browser hijacker that tricks users into installing it while secretly modifying browser settings, displaying intrusive ads, and tracking user activity. While not classified as a traditional virus, it poses significant security and privacy risks.
Removing this threat is essential to restore your system’s security and prevent further damage.

By following the detailed removal guide above, scanning your system with SpyHunter, and implementing preventive measures, you can keep your computer safe from future infections.