Audio Player Plus
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: | 13,893 |
| Threat Level: | 20 % (Normal) |
| Infected Computers: | 30 |
| First Seen: | April 19, 2023 |
| Last Seen: | September 26, 2023 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
Upon analyzing the Audio Player Plus application, it was observed that the application generates intrusive advertisements. Applications that exhibit such behavior are categorized as adware and PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs). Audio Player Plus was stumbled upon while examining dubious websites. It is not that rare for adware to be promoted and distributed via shady methods. Therefore, users should exercise caution while downloading applications from unverified sources to avoid potentially intrusive applications like adware.
Adware Applications Like Audio Player Plus could Lead to Privacy Risks
The Audio Player Plus is promoted as a browser extension that claims to allow users to listen to any audio format. However, the application is designed to display advertisements on affected devices and therefore functions as adware.
While not all adware may contain intrusive functionalities, many are designed primarily to deliver questionable advertisements and track specific user data. Indeed, adware typically has the capability to track users' browsing habits and then display targeted ads based on their interests and preferences. This could compromise the user experience, as well as potential privacy issues. Upon inspection, it was found that the Audio Player Plus has the capability to read and change all data on all websites, which raises serious privacy concerns.
Furthermore, adware can display pop-up ads that appear legitimate but redirect users to harmful websites. These sites can be designed to steal personal information through phishing schemes or propagate other online scams. In some cases, ads displayed by adware could even cause unwanted downloads and installations on users' devices. Therefore, users should exercise caution when downloading applications and browser extensions from unverified sources, as they may contain harmful adware that could compromise their device's security and privacy.
PUPs Try to Hide Their Installation from Users' Attention
PUPs often utilize dubious distribution methods to try to hide their installation from users' attention. One of the most ordinary tactics used by PUPs is bundling, where they are packaged with legitimate software downloads and installed without the user's knowledge or consent. PUPs can also be distributed via spam emails, fake software updates, or misleading advertisements, often appearing as 'free downloads' or 'special offers.'
These PUPs may try to conceal their installation by using deceptive installation procedures, such as hiding checkboxes that authorize their installation or presenting confusing prompts that trick users into accepting their terms. PUPs could also be disguised as harmless or useful software, which may further lure users into installing them. In some cases, PUPs may even mimic the look and feel of legitimate software, making it difficult for users to distinguish between the two.
