If you are seeing random pop-up ads asking to update Adobe Flash Player or Java within Internet Explorer, Firefox and Google Chrome, chances are your computer is infected with an adware or a potentially unwanted program.

The fake update Flash Player or Java pop-up ads are caused by an ad-supported extension for the browsers, which is distributed through various monetization platforms during installation. This malicious browser extension is automatically added when you install another free software.

When this malicious extension is installed, an ad with a fake request to update Adobe Flash Player or Java will randomly pop-up while browsing. The malicious web page will display a pop-up box that will say that you need to updated or install Flash Player or Java in order to view a video. If you click on the “Download”, “Run Update” or “Click to install now” button, instead of installing an update for Adobe Flash Player or Java, it will download an adware or a malicious program onto your computer.

• STEP 1: Uninstall malicious programs from Windows

You should start with trying to identify and remove any malicious program that might be installed on your computer.

• STEP 2: Use AdwCleaner to remove annoying pop-ups

Malwarebytes AdwCleaner is a free utility that scans your computer for “Update Flash Player” or “Update Java” adware that may have been installed without you being aware of it.

• STEP 3: Scan and clean your computer regularly with Malwarebytes

Malwarebytes is an on-demand powerful scanner that finds and removes malware from your computer.

• STEP 4: Double-check for malicious programs with HitmanPro

HitmanPro is a software that finds and remove malware, adware, bots, and other threats that even the best antivirus suite can oftentimes miss. HitmanPro is specifically designed to run alongside your antivirus suite, firewall, and other security tools.

• STEP 5: Use Zemana AntiMalware Portable to remove obnoxious browser hijackers

Zemana AntiMalware Portable is a free utility that scans your computer for browser hijacker and other malicious programs.

• STEP 6: Reset your browser to its default settings

If you are still experiencing issues with the pop-up ads in Internet Explorer, Firefox or Chrome, you might want to reset your browser to its default settings. This step should be performed as a last resort only if your issues have not been solved by the previous steps.