# How to get rid of McAfee pop ups & block fake alerts (2025)

Do constant security alerts interrupt your work or leisure? You are not the only one facing this issue. Whether it is a legitimate renewal reminder or a deceptive scam, these pop-ups are intrusive. This guide details exactly how to stop them on Windows, Mac, and popular browsers.


## 1. Diagnosing the Issue

The first step in fixing the problem is identifying the source. Not all pop-ups are the same.

### Legitimate Notifications
These originate from the McAfee software installed on your hard drive. They usually appear in the bottom right corner of your desktop. They provide information about scans, updates, or subscription expirations.

### Fake Browser Scams
These are more dangerous. They are not from McAfee. They are advertisements delivered by websites you have visited. They often use scare tactics, claiming your computer is already infected to panic you into clicking.

## 2. Stopping Notifications on Windows

If you want to keep your antivirus but stop the nagging banners, you can silence them via Windows Settings.

### Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Open Settings:** Press the Windows Key + I on your keyboard.
2. **Navigate to System:** This is usually the first option in the menu.
3. **Access Notifications:** Click on "Notifications & actions" in the left sidebar.
4. **Disable the App:** Scroll down to the list of senders. Find McAfee and turn the toggle switch to "Off."

## 3. Cleaning Up Browser Permissions

This is the most critical step for removing fake virus alerts. You must revoke the permission that allows bad websites to send you messages.

### For Google Chrome
* Go to **Settings** > **Privacy and security**.
* Select **Site Settings** > **Notifications**.
* Look at the list under "Allowed to send notifications."
* Click the three dots next to any suspicious URL and select **Remove**.

### For Microsoft Edge
* Go to **Settings** > **Cookies and site permissions**.
* Select **Notifications**.
* Review the "Allow" list and delete any unknown entries.

## 4. Removing Adware: PC App Store

A common culprit for these pop-ups is a program called "PC App Store." It is often bundled with free software and runs in the background.

### Windows Removal
1. **Stop the Process:** Open Task Manager and end the task for PC App Store.
2. **Disable Startup:** Go to the Startup tab in Task Manager and disable it.
3. **Uninstall:** Navigate to Settings > Apps > Apps & features. Locate the program and click Uninstall.

### macOS Removal
1. **Open Finder:** Navigate to your Applications folder.
2. **Locate the App:** Find "PC App Store" or "Auto App Updater."
3. **Delete:** Drag the icon to the Trash.
4. **Finalize:** Right-click the Trash icon and select "Empty Trash."

## 5. Protecting Your System

Once you have removed the annoyances, take steps to ensure they do not return.

* **Audit Extensions:** Check your browser extensions and remove any you did not install.
* **Update Software:** Keep your OS and browser updated to patch security vulnerabilities.
* **Stay Alert:** Never trust a pop-up that demands immediate action or payment.

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