Boost Audio
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: | 17,039 |
| Threat Level: | 20 % (Normal) |
| Infected Computers: | 2 |
| First Seen: | December 4, 2023 |
| Last Seen: | December 4, 2023 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
Following a comprehensive analysis of applications, information security experts have identified the Boost Audio as a browser extension endowed with adware capabilities. The categorization of the Boost Audio as adware is derived from its functionality to present intrusive advertisements to users. Furthermore, the Boost Audio exhibits the capability to access various forms of data, implying a potential privacy risk for users.
Adware Applications Like Boost Audio may Expose Users to Serious Privacy Risks
The Boost Audio inundates users with intrusive and disruptive advertisements, contributing to a frustrating and unpleasant overall user experience. The nature of these advertisements is such that they may contain misleading content, prompting users to unintentionally click on them, thereby resulting in both frustration and potential security risks.
Pages promoted through Boost Audio's advertisements may be specifically crafted to harbor unsafe software, facilitate tactics such as technical support fraud, and project an untrustworthy image through various means. Some of these advertisements might be designed to initiate unwanted downloads or installations, making it imperative for users to exercise caution and refrain from interacting with such advertisements.
In addition to the intrusive ad behavior, the Boost Audio is implicated in the unauthorized collection and sharing of sensitive user data with third-party advertisers, lacking clear and transparent user consent. Notably, the application possesses the capability to read and modify data on all websites, posing a severe threat to user privacy.
The capacity to alter data on websites presents a direct risk to the security of these platforms. Harmful modifications could compromise content integrity, disrupt services or introduce vulnerabilities. Consequently, it is strongly recommended that users promptly remove the Boost Audio from affected browsers to diminish potential security and privacy risks associated with its intrusive ad behavior and data-handling practices.
Adware Applications Often Sneak Their Installation via Questionable Distribution Tactics
Adware applications employ various questionable distribution tactics to install themselves on users' devices stealthily. Some common methods include:
- Bundled Software:
- Adware often piggybacks on the installation of seemingly legitimate software. Users may inadvertently agree to install the adware during the installation process of another program.
- Deceptive Advertising:
- Misleading online advertisements promising free or beneficial software can trick users into downloading adware. Clicking on such ads may initiate the download and installation of adware without the user's awareness.
- Fake Updates:
- Adware may pose as software updates or security patches. Users, thinking they are improving their system's security, may unknowingly download and install adware instead.
- Freeware and Shareware Platforms:
- Adware often takes advantage of freeware and shareware platforms where users expect to find free software. During the installation of seemingly free programs, users may unknowingly agree to install additional adware.
- Malvertising:
- Fraudulent advertising involves placing harmful code within online advertisements. Clicking on these advertisements can redirect users to websites that automatically download adware onto their devices.
- Social Engineering:
- Adware may use social engineering tactics, such as fake alerts or notifications, to deceive users into downloading the software. These tactics play on users' fears or desires, leading them to install adware unintentionally.
To protect against these tactics, users should exercise caution when downloading software, especially from unverified sources. Keeping software and security systems updated, using reputable anti-malware programs, and being vigilant against deceptive advertisements are crucial measures to prevent adware installations. Regularly reviewing installed applications and browser extensions also can help users identify and remove any unwanted adware.
