Hola-Browser-Setup-Inst.exe: Should I Remove It?

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Written by: Stelian Pilici

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If you have ever used a VPN service to access geo-restricted content, you might have come across Hola VPN. Hola VPN is a popular free VPN service that claims to offer fast and secure browsing. However, some users have reported finding a suspicious file named Hola-Browser-Setup-Inst.exe on their computers after installing Hola VPN. What is this file and should you remove it? In this blog post, we will answer these questions and provide some tips on how to protect your privacy and security online.

Windows Task Manager

What is Hola-Browser-Setup-Inst.exe?

Hola-Browser-Setup-Inst.exe is an executable file that belongs to Hola VPN. It is part of the installation process of Hola VPN and it is responsible for setting up the Hola browser extension on your default web browser. The file is usually located in the C:\Users{username}\AppData\Local\Temp folder and has a size of about 1.5 MB.

Is Hola-Browser-Setup-Inst.exe Malware?

Hola-Browser-Setup-Inst.exe is not technically malware, but it is not a trustworthy file either. There are several reasons why you should be wary of Hola VPN and its related files, such as:

  • Hola VPN is not a true VPN service, but a peer-to-peer network that uses your bandwidth and IP address to route other users’ traffic through your device. This means that you are essentially sharing your internet connection with strangers, which can expose you to various risks, such as identity theft, hacking, malware infection, legal issues, etc.
  • Hola VPN does not encrypt your traffic, which means that your online activities can be monitored by third parties, such as your ISP, government agencies, hackers, etc.
  • Hola VPN has been accused of selling user data and bandwidth to third parties, such as Luminati, a commercial proxy service that has been involved in malicious activities, such as botnets, DDoS attacks, ad fraud, etc.
  • Hola VPN has been found to contain vulnerabilities and security flaws that can allow hackers to access your device and compromise your privacy and security.

Should I Remove Hola-Browser-Setup-Inst.exe?

If you value your privacy and security online, you should remove Hola-Browser-Setup-Inst.exe and uninstall Hola VPN from your device as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can follow to do so:

  • Go to Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a program and look for Hola VPN or Hola Better Internet. Select it and click Uninstall.
  • Go to your default web browser’s settings and look for extensions or add-ons. Find Hola VPN or Hola Better Internet and disable or remove it.
  • Go to C:\Users{username}\AppData\Local\Temp and delete the file named Hola-Browser-Setup-Inst.exe if it is still there.
  • Scan your device with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to make sure there are no traces of Hola VPN or any other malicious files on your system.

Conclusion

Hola-Browser-Setup-Inst.exe is a file that belongs to Hola VPN, a free VPN service that is not safe or reliable. It is part of the installation process of Hola VPN and it sets up the Hola browser extension on your default web browser. However, Hola VPN poses several risks to your privacy and security online, such as exposing your IP address and bandwidth to other users, selling your data and bandwidth to third parties, not encrypting your traffic, and containing vulnerabilities and security flaws. Therefore, you should remove Hola-Browser-Setup-Inst.exe and uninstall Hola VPN from your device as soon as possible. You should also use a trustworthy VPN service that offers strong encryption, no logs policy, fast speed, and reliable performance.

How to Stay Safe Online

Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:

  1. Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.

    Shield Guide

    It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.

  2. Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.

    updates-guide

    Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.

  3. Be careful when installing programs and apps.

    install guide

    Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."

  4. Install an ad blocker.

    Ad Blocker

    Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.

  5. Be careful what you download.

    Trojan Horse

    A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.

  6. Be alert for people trying to trick you.

    warning sign

    Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.

  7. Back up your data.

    backup sign

    Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.

  8. Choose strong passwords.

    lock sign

    Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.

  9. Be careful where you click.

    cursor sign

    Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.

  10. Don't use pirated software.

    Shady Guide

    Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.

To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.

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