AssistSample

Cybersecurity researchers are warning Mac users about another intrusive application that is being spread via questionable distribution methods. Named AssistSample, this PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program) was found to be promoted by deceptive websites claiming that users were downloading an installer for the Adobe Flash Player. Once activated on the Mac, AssistSample is likely to begin generating numerous, intrusive advertisements.

The problem with adware applications, besides the obvious effect that the delivered advertisements have on the user experience, is that the advertisements are rarely for legitimate services, products or destinations. Instead, most users will encounter advertisements for technical support and phishing tactics, fake giveaways, shady adult-oriented pages and other similarly untrustworthy sites.

In addition, PUPs are notorious for trying to spy on users' browsing activities. These applications collect browsing-related information and transmit it to their operators. However, some PUPs also harvest device details, including IP addresses, geolocation, device type, browser type and more. In more serious cases, the PUP may even try to access account credentials and banking/payment details saved into browsers' autofill data.