Ads Blocker Pro

Threat Scorecard

Ranking: 6,085
Threat Level: 20 % (Normal)
Infected Computers: 79
First Seen: March 19, 2023
Last Seen: September 24, 2023
OS(es) Affected: Windows

The Ads Blocker Pro browser extension was discovered by a research team while investigating rogue webpages. This extension is marketed as an adblocker, a tool that is designed to stop advertisements from appearing while users browse the internet. However, upon analysis, it was found that Ads Blocker Pro operates as adware. Rather than blocking ads, it actually displays them.

The marketing of Ads Blocker Pro is deceptive in that it promotes itself as a tool to block ads, but it does the exact opposite by displaying ads. As adware, it generates revenue for its creators by displaying sponsored ads to users. This can be highly disruptive to the user experience, as it can result in an increase in pop-up ads and other unwanted advertising.

Adware Like Ads Blocker Pro Can Lead to Numerous Unwanted Consequences

Adware is short for advertising-supported software, which is designed to display advertisements on the websites users open as well as other interfaces. These ads can promote online scams, untrustworthy or harmful software, and even malware. In some cases, clicking on intrusive ads can execute scripts that perform downloads or installations without the user's consent.

It is important to note that while legitimate products or services may be advertised through these channels, it is unlikely that they are promoted in this manner by their developers. It is more probable that scammers are abusing the content's affiliate programs as a way to obtain illegitimate commissions.

Additionally, adware often collects private data, including visited URLs, viewed pages, searched queries, internet cookies, usernames and passwords, personally identifiable details, finance-related data, and more. This information could then be sold to third parties or otherwise abused for profit, compromising the user's privacy and security.

It is essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with adware and to exercise caution when downloading or installing software from the internet. Users should always research a program before installing it and use reputable security software to protect their devices from adware and other types of unwanted apps.

Adware And PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) Often Utilize Deceptive Distribution Tactics

Adware and Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) are often distributed using deceptive tactics, such as disguising themselves as legitimate software or hiding within the installation process of another program. This is commonly referred to as 'bundling.'

For example, a user may download a seemingly harmless program from an untrustworthy website and unknowingly agree to install additional software as part of the installation process. This additional software may be adware or a PUP.

Other deceptive distribution tactics include the use of fake download buttons, pop-up ads, and email spam campaigns that encourage users to download and install adware or PUPs. Some adware and PUPs may also be distributed through social engineering tactics, such as phishing scams or fake system alerts that trick users into installing them.

Once installed, adware and PUPs can be difficult to remove, as they may employ persistence-ensuring techniques or hide within the operating system. They can also be harmful to the user's device and privacy, as they may collect personal information or display intrusive ads that compromise the user's security. It is important for users to be cautious when downloading software from the internet and to use reputable antivirus software to protect their devices.

Related Posts

Trending

Most Viewed

Loading...