'SkipAds for Youtube' Adware
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: | 3,977 |
| Threat Level: | 20 % (Normal) |
| Infected Computers: | 171 |
| First Seen: | March 31, 2023 |
| Last Seen: | September 30, 2023 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
While analyzing the SkipAds for Youtube browser extension, infosec researchers confirmed that it acts as adware. It is highly likely that installing the app will result in users being presented with intrusive and questionable advertisements. Despite its name suggesting that it blocks ads, it ironically performs the exact opposite action by displaying them. It is worth noting that users often unintentionally download and install adware and other similarly untrustworthy PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs).
Adware And PUPs may Perform Numerous Intrusive Actions
The primary aim of adware, including SkipAds for Youtube, is to generate revenue for its creators by displaying advertisements to users, often without their consent. In the case of SkipAds for Youtube, it falsely claims to block ads on YouTube videos but instead generates more ads, leading to frustration for users.
When added to a web browser, SkipAds for Youtube can cause a range of problems for users. The app may display pop-up ads and banners and redirect users to other websites, affecting the user experience. These ads could also pose a security risk to users, as they may lead to websites containing dubious or harmful apps. Moreover, the adware may slow down a computer's performance by consuming valuable resources.
Given these issues, it is highly recommended that users remove adware such as SkipAds for Youtube from their computers as soon as possible to avoid further inconvenience and potential security risks.
PUPs and Adware are Rarely Installed Intentionally
The distribution of PUPs and adware often involves questionable tactics that can deceive or mislead users into unintentionally downloading and installing them. Some of these tactics include bundling PUPs and adware with legitimate software downloads, disguising them as useful software or browser extensions, and presenting them as necessary updates or security patches.
For example, a user may download a free software program that includes PUPs or adware bundled with it without realizing it. These PUPs or adware can then be installed alongside the desired software without the user's knowledge or consent. Another tactic is to present PUPs or adware as necessary software updates or security patches, with the intention of tricking users. Additionally, some websites may use deceptive pop-up ads or banners that mimic legitimate warnings or system alerts to encourage users to download and install PUPs or adware.
