Understanding and Removing test.pushclik.com: A Complete Security Guide

As the number of cybersecurity threats continues to grow, potentially suspicious domains like test.pushclik.com have shown concerning, unwanted behavior in web browsers, and contribute unwanted, seemingly endless popups, in addition to privacy risks. While it can appear benign, almost innocuous, and even a testing subdomain in the browser URL, further investigation suggests that it might be connected to a larger push notification abuse and adware distribution network.

This article will educate secondary users on what test.pushclik.com is, why you will see it in your browser, how it will affect your system, and most importantly the steps to eliminate its presence so it doesn’t return again.

What is test.pushclik.com?

test.pushclik.com is a subdomain of PushClik, a provider of push notification services. These services can sometimes be, or end up being used, to support abusive advertising, or to support potentially unwanted programs (PUPs). These domains often try to trick users into subscribing to browser notifications. All they can do is provide advertisements, fake alerts or unauthorized links to untrustworthy websites.

The subdomain “test” suggests there may be staging or developoment aspects to this site, but there have been reports that this site has been running in a production state, and is possibly not being appropriately secured, creating risk to users that land there uninvited.

How Does test.pushclik.com Operate?

The operation model of test.pushclik.com is often embedded in deceptive browser behavior. It commonly appears after users are redirected from other ad-heavy or suspicious websites. Once on the page, users are prompted to click “Allow” to supposedly confirm they are not robots, play a video, or download a file. Clicking “Allow” does not initiate a legitimate action—instead, it grants the domain permission to send push notifications.

These push notifications can include:

Misleading advertisements
Links to phishing or scam sites
Prompts to download fake software updates or extensions
Promotions for adult content or get-rich-quick schemes

Why is test.pushclik.com a Security Concern?

There are several reasons why cybersecurity experts flag test.pushclik.com as potentially dangerous:

1. Push Notification Abuse

Once permission is granted, test.pushclik.com can send spam-like notifications directly to your desktop or mobile device browser, even when the browser is closed. This constant interruption can be a sign of adware activity.

2. Redirect Chains

Users often report being redirected through several websites when encountering this domain, which increases the likelihood of landing on a malicious or phishing site.

3. Data Harvesting Risks

Some scripts hosted on such domains may collect user data like IP addresses, browsing habits, or even location details for ad targeting or worse, identity theft.

4. System Degradation

The presence of adware associated with domains like test.pushclik.com can slow down your browser or operating system due to excessive script execution and memory usage.

How Did test.pushclik.com Get on My System?

There are several common infection vectors:

Downloading free software from unofficial sources that includes bundled adware
Clicking on deceptive ads or fake “Download” buttons
Visiting torrent, streaming, or adult content sites that redirect to malicious links
Allowing browser notifications from unfamiliar websites

If you see test.pushclik.com regularly, it’s likely your system has been compromised by an adware application or browser hijacker.

How to Remove test.pushclik.com (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Revoke Notification Permissions

Chrome: Go to Settings > Privacy and security > Site Settings > Notifications, then block or remove test.pushclik.com.
Firefox: Navigate to Options > Privacy & Security > Permissions > Notifications > Settings, then remove the domain.
Edge: Click Settings > Cookies and site permissions > Notifications, then block test.pushclik.com.

Step 2: Uninstall Suspicious Programs

On Windows or macOS:

Go to the Control Panel or Applications folder.
Look for recently installed or suspicious software and uninstall it.

Step 3: Reset Browser Settings

Resetting your browser removes hijacker settings, rogue extensions, and unwanted changes.

In Chrome: Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their original defaults
In Firefox: Help > Troubleshooting Information > Refresh Firefox
In Edge: Settings > Reset Settings > Restore settings to their default values

Step 4: Use a Reputable Anti-Malware Tool

Use trusted software like:

Malwarebytes
HitmanPro
AdwCleaner

Perform a full system scan and remove any flagged threats related to test.pushclik.com or adware.

How to Prevent Future Encounters with test.pushclik.com

Prevention is key to maintaining a secure digital environment. Here’s how you can guard against sites like test.pushclik.com:

Avoid Suspicious Websites: Refrain from visiting pirated content, adult sites, or unofficial software download portals.
Install a Browser Extension Blocker: Use uBlock Origin or similar tools to block known ad and tracking domains.
Always Decline Push Notifications from Unknown Sites: Never click “Allow” unless you trust the website.
Keep Software Updated: Ensure your OS, browser, and security tools are always updated.
Enable Real-Time Protection: Use antivirus software that includes real-time monitoring for web threats.

Conclusion

test.pushclik.com may seem like a harmless web address at first glance, but its association with aggressive advertising techniques and potential misuse in delivering unwanted content makes it a red flag for security-conscious users. Whether it’s a remnant of a test environment or a deliberate ploy in adware schemes, encountering this domain is a sign that your system may need cleaning.

By understanding the behavior of test.pushclik.com and following the outlined removal steps, you can protect your device, preserve your privacy, and ensure a more secure browsing experience going forward.