SmartCharacter

While investigating intrusive and untrustworthy software, cybersecurity researchers discovered the SmartCharacter application. Its functionality places SmartCharacter squarely into the adware category. Indeed, this application is designed to feed users with unwanted and potentially unsafe ads, specifically on Mac devices. More importantly, the researchers have confirmed that the application is another program belonging to the AdLoad malware family.

Installing SmartCharacter May Lead to Increased Privacy Concerns

Adware applications are specifically designed to facilitate the display of third-party graphical content, including pop-ups, banners, coupons, overlays, and more, on various websites and interfaces. These advertisements serve as a medium to promote online tactics, potentially harmful or untrustworthy software, and even malware. Clicking on some of these advertisements may trigger the execution of scripts that lead to stealthy downloads or installations on the user's system.

It's essential to note that while legitimate content may occasionally be found in these advertisements, it is highly unlikely to be endorsed in such a manner by official parties. Instead, the promotion is often orchestrated by scammers who exploit affiliate programs associated with products to gain illegitimate commissions.

Adware typically possesses data-tracking capabilities, and this characteristic may extend to the SmartCharacter application. The information of interest that could be collected includes visited URLs, viewed pages, search queries, internet cookies, usernames and passwords, personally identifiable details, financial data and more. The collected data may then be shared with or sold to third parties, causing disquiet about the user's privacy and the potential misuse of sensitive information.

Be Careful When Installing Applications from Unverified Sources

Adware and Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) often employ dubious distribution tactics to infiltrate users' systems. Here are some common methods used by these unwanted entities:

• Bundled Software: Adware and PUPs are frequently bundled with seemingly legitimate software. Users may inadvertently download these programs when installing free applications, especially from less reputable sources. The bundled adware or PUP is often hidden in the installation process, and users may overlook or unintentionally agree to its installation.
•  Deceptive Advertising: Adware and PUPs may be distributed through deceptive advertisements that prompt users to click on misleading links or download seemingly harmless applications. These advertisements can be displayed on various websites mimicking legitimate prompts, which may entice users into unknowingly installing unwanted programs.
•  Fake Software Updates: Adware and PUPs may disguise themselves as legitimate software updates. Users may encounter pop-up notifications claiming that their software needs updating, but clicking on these prompts may lead to the insertion of unwanted programs instead of genuine updates.
•  File-Sharing Platforms: Adware and PUPs can be distributed through peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing platforms. Users who download files or software from these platforms may unknowingly acquire adware or PUPs bundled with the desired content.
•  Email Attachments and Links: Malicious emails may contain attachments or links that, when opened or clicked, may cause the download and installation of adware or PUPs. These emails are known to employ social engineering tactics to convince users to take actions that compromise their systems.
•  Browser Extensions: Some adware and PUPs are distributed as seemingly harmless browser extensions or plugins. Users may be prompted to install these extensions for purported benefits. Still, in reality, they serve the interests of the adware or PUP creators by injecting unwanted ads or collecting user data.

To avoid falling victim to these distribution tactics, users should exercise caution when downloading software, be vigilant about clicking on ads or links, keep software and security tools up-to-date, and use reputable sources for downloading applications. Additionally, employing anti-malware solutions can help detect and prevent the installation of adware and PUPs.