What PUA means
A
potentially unwanted app, or PUA, is software whose behavior can be undesirable without fitting every definition of malware. Microsoft cites unwanted advertising, cryptomining or offers to install extra software as examples. The label is a risk category, not a promise that the program is harmless.
Example
A free converter installs a browser add-on and changes the search provider unless you notice small print. It may not steal passwords, yet it can still reduce control of the PC. Windows can warn before or after installation, depending on the protection and browser. Microsoft's
PUA explanation describes the spectrum from clean software to malware.
Useful response
Remove software you did not intentionally choose, review added extensions and reset affected browser settings. Get future utilities from the real publisher, read installer choices and decline extras. If the app also touched accounts or demanded administrator access unexpectedly, investigate beyond the PUA label.
