CleanTab Refresh
Threat Scorecard
EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecard
EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards are assessment reports for different malware threats which have been collected and analyzed by our research team. EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards evaluate and rank threats using several metrics including real-world and potential risk factors, trends, frequency, prevalence, and persistence. EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards are updated regularly based on our research data and metrics and are useful for a wide range of computer users, from end users seeking solutions to remove malware from their systems to security experts analyzing threats.
EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards display a variety of useful information, including:
Ranking: The ranking of a particular threat in EnigmaSoft’s Threat Database.
Severity Level: The determined severity level of an object, represented numerically, based on our risk modeling process and research, as explained in our Threat Assessment Criteria.
Infected Computers: The number of confirmed and suspected cases of a particular threat detected on infected computers as reported by SpyHunter.
See also Threat Assessment Criteria.
| Ranking: | 8,505 |
| Threat Level: | 50 % (Medium) |
| Infected Computers: | 27 |
| First Seen: | May 11, 2023 |
| Last Seen: | September 19, 2023 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
While examining suspicious websites, researchers found the CleanTab Refresh browser extension. It is advertised as a tool that provides a one-click way for users to refresh their Web pages. However, it also was discovered that the extension is a type of adware that displays advertisements. Adware is software that displays advertisements automatically and usually without the user's consent. This type of software may display intrusive advertisements or collect user data for advertising purposes.
Installing Adware Like CleanTab Refresh could Lead to Privacy Risks
CleanTab Refresh is an example of adware, a type of software that is designed to display intrusive advertisements on visited websites or other interfaces. These advertisements can promote various scams, untrustworthy/harmful applications, and even malware. Sometimes, clicking on these ads can lead to unintended downloads/installations without user consent.
Although some legitimate products or services may be advertised this way, it is highly unlikely that their developers would use this method to promote them. Instead, adware is often used by the con artists who abuse the content's affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.
Although not all adware may deliver intrusive ads, the presence of adware like the CleanTab Refresh on a system can still pose a threat to device integrity and user safety. In addition to displaying advertisements, the CleanTab Refresh also may collect user data, including URLs visited, Web pages viewed, search queries typed, Internet cookies, login credentials (usernames/passwords), personally identifiable details, finance-related information and more. This sensitive information can then be monetized through sales to third parties, including potential cybercriminals.
Adware Often Masks Its Installation Through Dubious Distribution Tactics
Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) and adware are often distributed through various deceptive tactics that trick users into installing them. They might be bundled with other software or free downloads, masquerading as legitimate applications or updates. Another common tactic is through fake alerts or pop-up messages that prompt the user to download or install a program.
Advertisements or links that lead to the download of such programs also may appear on social media, peer-to-peer sharing platforms, or file-sharing websites. These programs can also be installed through browser extensions or plugins, which promise an improved browsing experience or access to exclusive content. In some cases, PUPs and adware might use misleading and confusing interfaces to trick users into clicking on buttons or links that lead to their installation. Finally, phishing emails or messages that impersonate trusted companies or organizations also might contain links or attachments that install PUPs or adware.
