Browser Assistant

Browser Assistant is an intrusive application, designed to inject a JavaScript code into the user's Web browsers. The threat is mostly targeted at Windows users with Edge and Firefox browsers. Due to the nature of its programming, the Browser Assistant may be detected by anti-malware security solutions as a Trojan. Another important characteristic associated with it is that the installer of the Browser Assistant appears to be signed by an entity known as Realistic Media Inc. When installed on the system, the Browser Assistant may appear as Realistic Media Inc., in the Programs and Features list. It also may create several items in the Startup folder, such as 'BrowserAssistant' and 'updater.'

The apparent goal of the Browser Assistant is to deliver various intrusive PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) to the system, cause unwanted redirects to dubious promoted websites, or show annoying and questionable advertisements in the browsers it has managed to affect. Browser Assistant, and PUPs in general, also could spy on the browsing activities carried out on the system. They may try to harvest private data, such as the browsing and search histories, device deta and more.

The most likely method used by Browser Assistant to spread itself is via suspicious software bundles. This tactic sees the intruder application being included as a pre-selected choice in the installation settings of a more legitimate program. Furthermore, users may need to manually check the 'Advanced' or 'Custom' settings to see what other items have been scheduled to be deployed on their computers.