Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteLenovo’s VisualDiscovery adware led to two distinct settlements: a Federal Trade Commission order requiring affirmative consent and a long-term software security program, and a multistate agreement reported to include a $3.5 million payment. The case centered on a shopping feature that the FTC said could intercept encrypted web traffic and weaken certificate checks on certain consumer laptops.
What was Lenovo Superfish adware?
VisualDiscovery, developed by Superfish, came preinstalled on certain Lenovo consumer laptops. It was marketed as a shopping aid: hovering over a product image could trigger ads for visually similar products sold by Superfish retail partners. The FTC said Lenovo began selling affected laptops in the United States in August 2014 and that hundreds of thousands of laptops were affected. FTC announcement
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
How did VisualDiscovery create a security risk?
To place ads while users browsed encrypted HTTPS sites, the software inserted itself between the browser and the website and substituted its own certificates. The FTC alleged that VisualDiscovery did not adequately validate certificates before replacing them and used a common, easy-to-crack password on affected laptops. That setup could suppress normal browser security warnings and create an opportunity for an attacker to intercept communications. FTC announcement
The FTC distinguished between information the software could access and information it collected and sent to Superfish. It said VisualDiscovery could access sensitive information transmitted online; the information it collected and transmitted was more limited, including browsing sites and IP addresses. The agency alleged that Lenovo did not adequately disclose the interception capability or obtain informed consent.
#1 Best Overall
- RELIABLE PERFORMANCE FOR EVERYDAY WORK: The Intel N150 processor works with 8GB LPDDR5 memory and 128GB UFS 2.2 storage to support web browsing, email, document editing, online classes, video streaming, and routine multitasking. Integrated Intel Graphics provides dependable visuals for business, education, and everyday home use.
- CLEAR 15.6-INCH FULL HD DISPLAY: The 1920x1080 anti-glare display offers a spacious view for documents, presentations, research, online learning, and entertainment. Its 250-nit brightness, 88% active-area ratio, and TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light software solution support comfortable viewing during extended work or study sessions.
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND DURABLE DESIGN: Starting at only 3.42 lbs and measuring 0.70 inches thin, this Arctic Grey Lenovo laptop travels easily between home, school, and the office. MIL-STD-810H testing adds everyday durability, while the full-size keyboard includes a dedicated Copilot key for convenient access to AI assistance.
- MODERN CONNECTIVITY AND PRIVACY: Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 provide reliable connections for networks and accessories. Two USB-A ports, USB-C with Power Delivery and DisplayPort, HDMI 1.4, an SD card reader, and a 3.5mm audio jack support displays and peripherals, while the 720p camera includes a physical privacy shutter.
- READY FOR BUSINESS AND EDUCATION: Windows 11 Home and Microsoft 365 Personal provide familiar tools for documents, communication, coursework, and daily productivity. A 47Wh battery supports mobile workflows, while the included 65W power adapter enables efficient charging. Dolby Audio stereo speakers and dual-array microphones enhance online meetings and classes.
What did the FTC allege, and how did Lenovo respond?
The FTC complaint alleged that Lenovo failed to adequately disclose VisualDiscovery’s ability to intercept communications and transmit browsing information, failed to obtain informed consent, and did not sufficiently assess or address risks posed by third-party preloaded software. These were allegations resolved through a consent order, not findings after a contested trial. The complaint and order are available on the FTC case page.
Lenovo said it stopped preloading VisualDiscovery in early 2015 and worked with antivirus providers to disable and remove it. The company disputed the allegations and said it knew of no actual exploitation. That is Lenovo’s account, not an independent determination that no user was exposed or that the software posed no risk. Lenovo statement
Rank #2
- RELIABLE EVERYDAY PERFORMANCE – Powered by an Intel N150 quad-core processor for smooth web browsing, document editing, video streaming, online classes, email, and light multitasking.
- CLEAR 15.6-INCH FHD DISPLAY – Enjoy sharp visuals on the Full HD anti-glare screen, designed for comfortable viewing while studying, working remotely, attending video calls, or watching entertainment.
- FAST DDR5 MEMORY AND SSD STORAGE – 8GB DDR5 RAM supports responsive everyday computing, while the 128GB PCIe SSD provides quick startup and convenient storage for essential applications and files.
- DESIGNED FOR WORK AND SCHOOL – Windows 11 Home, a full-size keyboard with numeric keypad, and a 720p HD webcam with privacy shutter make this Lenovo laptop ready for assignments, spreadsheets, meetings, and remote learning.
- MODERN WIRELESS AND WIRED CONNECTIVITY – Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 help keep you connected, while USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, an SD card reader, and an audio jack support everyday accessories and external displays.
What did the settlements require?
The federal and state agreements were separate settlement tracks, with different reported obligations.
| Settlement track | Timing and parties | Requirements reported | Payment specified |
|---|---|---|---|
| FTC order | FTC announced the proposed settlement in September 2017; final approval followed in January 2018. | Affirmative consumer consent before covered software runs; restrictions on misrepresentations about specified software features; a comprehensive security program for most consumer software preloaded on Lenovo laptops, subject to third-party audits. | No payment stated in the cited FTC materials. |
| Multistate agreement | Lenovo and a coalition of 32 states; reported in 2017. | Clearer disclosures, affirmative consent, and practical ways to opt out, disable, or remove covered software. | $3.5 million, according to the Nevada Attorney General. |
The FTC’s software security program was required for 20 years. FTC final order announcement Nevada’s Attorney General described the distinct state agreement and payment. Nevada Attorney General announcement
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- ⚡ POWERFUL PERFORMANCE FOR EVERYDAY TASKS: Intel N150 quad-core processor (up to 3.6GHz turbo) with 8GB LPDDR5-4800 RAM delivers smooth multitasking for web browsing, document editing, video streaming, and light productivity. 128GB UFS 2.2 storage provides fast boot times and quick app launches for your essential programs and files.
- 🖥️ IMMERSIVE 15.6" FHD DISPLAY: Crystal-clear 1920x1080 Full HD resolution with 88% screen-to-body ratio maximizes your viewing area. Anti-glare coating reduces eye strain during extended use, while Dolby Audio-enhanced stereo speakers deliver rich, clear sound for entertainment and video calls.
- 🎒 ULTRA-PORTABLE & DURABLE DESIGN: Weighing just 3.42 lbs (1.55 kg) with a slim 0.70" profile, this laptop easily fits in any bag for on-the-go productivity. MIL-STD-810H military-grade tested for durability. HD 720p camera with privacy shutter protects your privacy when not in use.
- 🌐 SEAMLESS CONNECTIVITY: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2 ensure fast, reliable wireless connections. Versatile ports include 2x USB-A, 1x USB-C (with Power Delivery and DisplayPort), HDMI 1.4, SD card reader, and headphone jack - connect all your devices and peripherals with ease.
- 💻 READY TO USE OUT OF THE BOX: Pre-installed Windows 11 Home and Microsoft 365 Personal get you started right away with the latest features and productivity tools. ENERGY STAR 9.0 certified and TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light certified for reduced eye strain during extended computing sessions.
Rank #3
- Processor & Performance: AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS (8C/16T, up to 4.75GHz) | Integrated Radeon 680M Graphics
- Display & Audio: 16" WUXGA (1920x1200) IPS Anti-Glare | FHD 1080p IR Camera + Privacy Shutter | Dolby Atmos | HARMAN Stereo Speakers | Dual Microphones
- Memory & Storage: 16GB DDR5 | 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD + 500GB Ext HDD
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E (2.4/5/6GHz) | Bluetooth 5.3 | 2x USB-C (PD 3.0 + DP 1.4) | HDMI 2.1 (4K@60Hz) | RJ-45 Ethernet | 2x USB-A (5Gbps + 10Gbps Always On) | 3.5mm Combo
- Security & OS: TPM 2.0 | Fingerprint Reader (Power Button) | IR Facial Recognition | Windows 11 Pro. Backlit English EU Keyboard | Thin 16" Black Chassis | Ideal for Business, Education, Hybrid Work
When did the case unfold?
- August 2014: The FTC said Lenovo began selling certain U.S. consumer laptops with VisualDiscovery.
- February 2015: Lenovo said it was stopping preloads and described manual and automated removal measures, including work with antivirus vendors. The original removal tool is a historical measure; its current availability has not been established. Lenovo’s February 2015 statement
- September 5, 2017: The FTC announced its proposed settlement; Lenovo said it had reached agreements with the FTC and a coalition of 32 states while disputing the complaints.
- January 2, 2018: The FTC announced final approval of its order.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
