What type of attack is characterized by the inability to block unwanted ads despite user attempts?

Adware is a type of malicious software specifically designed to display advertisements on a user’s device, often against their wishes. Unlike other types of malware that might encrypt files or steal information stealthily, adware actively seeks to make profit through invasive advertising tactics. Users may find that despite their efforts to block or eliminate unwanted ads, such as using browser settings or ad-blocking software, the adware often persists. This is because the software can be deeply integrated into the user's system or browser, enabling it to bypass ordinary defenses and continue to deliver advertisements or redirect users to certain websites.

In contrast, ransomware encrypts files and demands a ransom for decryption, spyware surreptitiously gathers user information without consent, and Trojan horses disguise themselves as legitimate software but may execute harmful actions once installed. Each of these types of malware has distinct behavioral characteristics and impacts on the user, making adware particularly notable for its focus on advertising and persistent nature amidst user attempts to block it.