CommonHandler

Researchers who analyzed the CommonHandler application were able to determine that it is an intrusive adware. Apps of this type are often capable of multiple unwanted functionalities, mainly the delivery of dubious advertisements and the collecting of various user and browsing data. Furthermore, CommonHandlers has been confirmed to be targeted at Mac users specifically. The app is another addition to the infamous AdLoad adware family.

Adware Apps Like CommonHandler Should Not Be Trusted

The researchers provide a more comprehensive overview of the CommonHandler adware. Adware is specifically designed to generate revenue for its developers through intrusive advertising campaigns. This type of software facilitates the display of various advertisements, such as pop-ups, banners, surveys, overlays, and more, on different interfaces.

The main purpose of these advertisements is to endorse online scams, unreliable or harmful software, and even malware. Some intrusive ads have the ability to initiate stealthy downloads or installations when clicked on.

It is important to note that any genuine products or services encountered through these ads are most likely promoted by scammers who exploit their affiliate programs in order to gain illegitimate commissions.

Furthermore, adware apps typically collect private information, and it is possible that CommonHandler does the same. The gathered data may include browsing and search engine histories, internet cookies, usernames and passwords, personally identifiable information, credit card numbers, and more. This collected information can potentially be shared with or sold to third parties, including cyber criminals.

Users are Unlikely to Install Adware and PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) Intentionally

The researchers provide an overview of the typical distribution methods used to spread PUPs and adware. These methods include:

• Bundled Software: PUPs and adware are often bundled with legitimate software downloads. Users may inadvertently install these unwanted programs by not carefully reviewing the installation process and accepting default options without paying attention to additional bundled software.
• Freeware and Shareware: PUPs and adware are frequently packaged with free or shareware applications. Users who download such software from unreliable or untrustworthy sources may unknowingly install additional unwanted programs alongside the desired software.
• Rogue Websites: Visiting untrustworthy websites or clicking on malicious links can lead to the automatic download and installation of PUPs and adware. These websites may employ deceptive tactics to trick users into initiating the download process.
• Fake Updates and Installers: PUPs and adware may be disguised as software updates or installers. Users who encounter fake update prompts or installers from unverified sources run the risk of installing unwanted programs instead of legitimate updates or applications.
• Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Networks: Downloading files from peer-to-peer networks, such as torrents, exposes users to the potential risk of obtaining PUPs and adware. These networks often lack rigorous security measures, making them attractive platforms for distributing unwanted programs.
• Malvertising: Malicious advertising, known as malvertising, involves placing infected or misleading advertisements on legitimate websites. Clicking on these ads can trigger the download and installation of PUPs and adware without the user's knowledge or consent.
• Email Attachments and Spam: PUPs and adware can be distributed through email attachments or spam messages. Opening attachments from unknown or suspicious sources can lead to the inadvertent installation of unwanted programs.

It is important for users to exercise caution when downloading software, visiting websites, and interacting with online advertisements. Verifying the source, reading user reviews, using trusted download platforms, and employing reputable security software can help mitigate the risk of unintentionally installing PUPs and adware.

Adware Apps Like CommonHandler Should Not Be Trusted

The researchers provide a more comprehensive overview of the CommonHandler adware. Adware is specifically designed to generate revenue for its developers through intrusive advertising campaigns. This type of software facilitates the display of various advertisements, such as pop-ups, banners, surveys, overlays, and more, on different interfaces.

The main purpose of these advertisements is to endorse online scams, unreliable or harmful software, and even malware. Some intrusive ads have the ability to initiate stealthy downloads or installations when clicked on.

It is important to note that any genuine products or services encountered through these ads are most likely promoted by scammers who exploit their affiliate programs in order to gain illegitimate commissions.

Furthermore, adware apps typically collect private information, and it is possible that CommonHandler does the same. The gathered data may include browsing and search engine histories, internet cookies, usernames and passwords, personally identifiable information, credit card numbers, and more. This collected information can potentially be shared with or sold to third parties, including cybercriminals.

Users are Unlikely to Install Adware and PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) Intentionally

The researchers provide an overview of the typical distribution methods used to spread PUPs and adware. These methods include:

• Bundled Software: PUPs and adware are often bundled with legitimate software downloads. Users may inadvertently install these unwanted programs by not carefully reviewing the installation process and accepting default options without paying attention to additional bundled software.
• Freeware and Shareware: PUPs and adware are frequently packaged with free or shareware applications. Users who download such software from unreliable or untrustworthy sources may unknowingly install additional unwanted programs alongside the desired software.
• Rogue Websites: Visiting untrustworthy websites or clicking on malicious links can lead to the automatic download and installation of PUPs and adware. These websites may employ deceptive tactics to trick users into initiating the download process.
• Fake Updates and Installers: PUPs and adware may be disguised as software updates or installers. Users who encounter fake update prompts or installers from unverified sources run the risk of installing unwanted programs instead of legitimate updates or applications.
• Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Networks: Downloading files from peer-to-peer networks, such as torrents, exposes users to the potential risk of obtaining PUPs and adware. These networks often lack rigorous security measures, making them attractive platforms for distributing unwanted programs.
• Malvertising: Malicious advertising, known as malvertising, involves placing infected or misleading advertisements on legitimate websites. Clicking on these ads can trigger the download and installation of PUPs and adware without the user's knowledge or consent.
• Email Attachments and Spam: PUPs and adware can be distributed through email attachments or spam messages. Opening attachments from unknown or suspicious sources can lead to the inadvertent installation of unwanted programs.

It is important for users to exercise caution when downloading software, visiting websites, and interacting with online advertisements. Verifying the source, reading user reviews, using trusted download platforms, and employing reputable security software can help mitigate the risk of unintentionally installing PUPs and adware.