Threat Database Adware BrowserBuffer

BrowserBuffer

BrowserBuffer poses as a useful application that many Mac users could benefit from. Unfortunately, this is not the case exactly. Immediately after installation, BrowserBuffer shows its true face - that of a dubious adware application. Furthermore, it also is equipped with browser hijacker capabilities. Most Mac users may not even know when the application managed to deliver itself to their devices exactly. This is a common trait associated with PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs). Instead of relying on users to download and install them willingly, these applications employ numerous deceptive tactics designed to hide their installations specifically. Two examples include the practice of 'bundling' the PUP alongside a more popular and legitimate, software product and being disguised as a fake installer/updater for a different program.

Once inside the Mac, BrowserBuffer will start to deliver intrusive advertisements in a scheme to generate monetary gains for its creators. The ads could take various forms and may even begin to overlay any other content opened in the browser. Users must use caution when dealing with the shown advertisements - engaging with them could trigger forced redirects leading to questionable third-party pages. It is quite common for users to land on deceiving pages, phishing sites, domains promoting more PUPs, etc.

Meanwhile, the browser hijacker part of the application will try to take control over the Web browser. More specifically, it will target several settings such as the homepage, new tab page, and the default search engine. The goal is to set all of them to open a promoted address, typically that of a fake search engine.

Keep in mind that having PUPs present on your Mac could mean that your browsing activities are being monitored. Not only that, but these applications might collect other data such as device details, then package all of it together and transmit it to a remote server. The operators of the PUP could then try to exploit the collected information in targeted email tactics or even offer it for sale to interested parties. It is strongly recommended to remove all PUP as soon as you notice their presence with a professional anti-malware solution, preferably.

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