

Through various deceptive practices, the download process may try to add extra, unwanted software to your installation package. Some foistware pops up when you visit online shopping sites, and tries to steer you to certain vendors or offers.įoistware almost always tags along when you download a program that you do want. Most often, foistware takes the form of browser toolbars, but it can also take over your browser homepage and preferred search engines.

Foistware isn't technically malware, but it can range from marginally useful, to annoying, to malicious. Foistware is a term used for software that's "foisted" on you, typically without your knowledge or explicit consent.
