Convert Page to PDF Adware
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: | 7,234 |
| Threat Level: | 20 % (Normal) |
| Infected Computers: | 65 |
| First Seen: | May 4, 2023 |
| Last Seen: | September 26, 2023 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
The Convert Page to PDF browser extension tries to attract users with the promise of providing a simple and easy way to create a PDF document of a chosen website. Apparently, users will only have to click on the icon of the page to generate the desired document. However, when cybersecurity researchers analyzed the Convert Page to PDF browser extension, they discovered that the app causes intrusive and irritating ads to pop up on the user's device. As a result of this behavior, the program has been classified as adware.
Adware Like Convert Page to PDF Often Have Intrusive Capabilities
Adware applications, such as Convert Page to PDF, are typically mostly focused on main displaying unwanted advertisements on the devices they are installed on. The goal is to generate revenue for their developers. As a result, users may be frequently disrupted by a variety of ads, including pop-ups, banners, and in-text advertisements that promote different products and services, such as software, online shopping deals, dating sites, adult content and more.
Individuals behind advertisements delivered by applications like Convert Page to PDF may be con artists attempting to deceive users into downloading PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs), providing personal information, or making fraudulent purchases. Therefore, it is essential to avoid clicking on ads displayed by adware apps.
Adware also is infamous for collecting information about the websites users visit, their search queries, terms entered into search engines, etc. In some cases, the adware may even be able to obtain personal information, such as login credentials, email addresses, financial details, and more.
The information collected by adware is often used for targeted advertising, but it can also be sold to third-party advertisers or used for other fraudulent purposes. Therefore, it is crucial for users to avoid downloading adware apps and use reliable and trustworthy software instead. If users accidentally download adware, they should remove it immediately to prevent further harm.
How PUPs and Adware Avoid Attracting Users' Attention During Their Installation?
PUPs and adware are typically distributed through shady methods that exploit users' trust and lack of awareness. One common method is through software bundling, where PUPs and adware are bundled with legitimate software downloads. Users may unknowingly install these unwanted programs when they install legitimate software without carefully reviewing the installation process and unchecking the boxes for additional software.
Another method is through deceptive advertising, such as fake download buttons or misleading pop-up advertisements. These advertisements can appear on legitimate websites, leading users to believe that they are downloading a legitimate program or update when in fact, they are downloading PUPs or adware.
Additionally, PUPs and adware can be distributed through rogue websites and phishing emails. Ill-minded websites may prompt users to download software or updates that are actually PUPs or adware. Phishing emails may carry links that lead to websites that prompt users to download PUPs or adware.
PUPs and adware also may be distributed through social engineering tactics, such as fake virus alerts or technical support frauds. These tactics may deceive users into believing that their computer is infected or experiencing issues, leading them to download PUPs or adware as a solution.
Overall, the distribution of PUPs and adware often involves exploiting users' trust and lack of knowledge, making it extremely necessary for users to be cautious when downloading software and clicking on advertisements or links.
