I wrote this article to help you remove Google Image Downloader. This Google Image Downloader removal guide works for all Windows versions.

Google Image Downloader is a malicious extension for the Google Chrome browser. It is categorized by malware researchers as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program). They can be seen in the form of programs, applications, extensions, add-ons, toolbars, optimization tools, etc.

At first, Google Image Downloader might look like a reliable extension to install, but unfortunately, that is not true. It has the power to alter your browser settings and hijack your search provider, as well as display intrusive advertisement content on every website that you visit. Such ad content may include but is not limited to pop-ups, exclusive deals, special offers, blinking messages, fake update requests, coupons, ads hyperlinks on random web page text, etc.

This Chrome extension is promoted by a malicious JavaScript code that comes from infected websites. It forces the user to install this unwanted program on their browser by displaying a pop-up that is telling you to “Add Google Image Downloader”. What happens is, that you click on “Cancel” which adds a tick box marked “Prevent this page from creating additional dialogs”. You fall right into the trap by ticking that box and clicking ‘OK’. This action will lead to the prompt install of the malicious extension.

How can you stumble upon such infected pages? Well, often your browser will reroute you to them through a hacked keygen, crack or an adult entertainment site. Another way of distribution is by free bundled software.

Developers often repackage programs and applications along with malicious software. Users easily fall into this trap by opting for a Quick installation. If you go for Custom or Advanced mode in the Setup Wizard instead, you can see each and every piece of software that is included in those said bundles and all you have to do is just deselect any programs that you deem suspicious or never intended to download in the first place.

Such potentially unwanted programs are able to cause security troubles after their installation. While they are not considered to be viruses, they still can get into the user’s computer without their knowledge or consent and act in a way that may pose a risk to their security. It is important to mention that not every PUP might be an adware tool or a browser hijacker. But if such program fails to prove its legitimacy and usefulness, it is very likely that it is, in fact, a malicious pest in disguise.

Google Image Downloader can start showing intrusive adverts no matter which webpage you visit. Victim of this malicious extension will constantly experience annoying intrusions during their browsing sessions in the form of fake update requests or other software promotions. It is possible for your homepage and search engine to get replaced by custom ones.

Google Image Downloader Removal

Run the Task Manager by right clicking on the Taskbar and choosing Start Task Manager.

Look carefully at the file names and descriptions of the running processes. If you find any suspicious one, search on Google for its name, or contact me directly to identify it. If you find a malware process, right-click on it and choose End task.

Open Control Panel by holding the Win Key and R together. Write appwiz.cpl in the field, then click OK.

Here, find any program you had no intention to install and uninstall it.

Open MS Config by holding the Win Key and R together. Type msconfig and hit Enter.

Go to the Startup tab and Uncheck entries that have “Unknown” as Manufacturer.

Still cannot remove Google Image Downloader from your computer? Please, leave a comment below, describing what steps you performed. I will answer promptly.