What does this message on my computer means and how can I get rid of it?

[Amy10223]

I get a message on the upper right hand of my laptop that says my McAfee has expired. I don't even have McAfee, and I don't know where this came from, but I know they just want me to buy it. My laptop has built in virus protection already, and I have looked for this software in my files to get rid of it, but it's not even there. Can someone explain where exactly I should be looking in order to get rid if it? Or should I have someone look at it?

Updates

+1 y

file:///Users/home/Downloads/IMG_1737. PNG

This is the window I get.

[matchrestore]

McAfee loves to include itself "for free" with a number of different software packages, and even on new computers bought from big-box retailers. The problem is this free version is just a trial and they'll push for you to purchase a subscription. While having an anti-virus software is definitely recommended on a Windows computer, there are others out there that are free, and arguably better than McAfee. I personally use AVG, although its gotten annoying with its constant attempts to get you to upgrade to a paid version of its software. I've heard good things about Bitdefender, and I might go with that one. I've also thought about Microsoft Defender, but I don't know enough about that one to recommend it yet.

[Amy10223]

I've use AVG before, but my daughter told me I don't have to have any other virus program because the computer has it already built in. She has AVG on hers but she has Windows, and I don't.

[AviatorTom]

Sounds like you (intentionally or inadvertently) downloaded and installed some new software that McAfee comes along with. There's usually a check-box (already checked) that you have to uncheck before installing the downloaded software. Adobe Acrobat and Adobe Reader (PDF Viewer) are well-known for this.

[Amy10223]

Sounds reasonable, but I didn't use anything except for a scanner that I ran after I noticed that pop up. I still have this despite putting in a guard for pop-ups. I did find out it is not virus, but a popup that is most likely from someone who wants me to buy McAfee and sue my information.

[Jessica405]

It sounds like a typical scam. Don't click on anything to do with it. I assume you are using Windows. Others may be able to help as I use a different OS.

It could be something running as a service, but you might find something in Program Files.

[Amy10223]

I don't have Windows. I wish it were that easy. In my program files, I don't see it anywhere. However, there is a letter code name that I've noticed. I looked for that, but it isn't in the Program files.

[SaoirseS]

This might help you remove it.


https://www.mcafee.com/support/?locale=en-US&articleId=TS102999&page=shell&shell=article-view

[Amy10223]

Thanks, that's exactly what I need.

[SaoirseS]

No problem! Sorry you have to read through so much before getting to removal instructions for each browser, but at least it’s there. Hope it works 😀

[Amy10223]

Thanks. There is a lot to read but as long as it gets rid of it, that's what matters. Thanks again.

[Astarlessnightsky]

I would guess you had mcafee installed right from the start and now the period youve bough with your laptop has expired.

[Amy10223]

Thats the strange thong--I never installed that.

[Amy10223]

thing too.

[IslaTheWitch]

mcAfee comes with a lot of software. In Windows search write remove and remove it

[Amy10223]

No Windows.

[IslaTheWitch]

how do you want help if you don't share your OS? Do I look like I can read your mind or something?

[Amy10223]

I don't have Windows, I have a MacBook. Why so defensive?

[IslaTheWitch]

check app store or applications and uninstall mcafee

[exitseven]

it is a scam. close the browser and reopen it again.

[legalboxers]

scam... add remove programs