DesignDefault

DesignDefault is a deceptive application targeting Mac users. The application advertises itself as a useful tool but in reality, it is a Potentially Unwanted Program PUP) designed to generate monetary value for its creators. The main functionality of DesignDefault is to act as adware and deliver intrusive advertisements to users. However, the application is also equipped with browser hijacker capabilities. It should also be noted that PUPs seldomly wait for users to download and install them intentionally. Instead, in the vast majority of cases, these applications are distributed via misleading marketing tactics such as bundling or fake software installers/updaters.

The adware part of DesignDefault will manifest itself by generating numerous unwanted advertising materials. The advertisements may try to lure users through alluring or clickbait messages. However, engaging with the shown advertisements could lead to questionable websites such as phishing pages, technical support tactics, domains spreading PUPs and more.

The activities of DesignDefault also will impact the Web browsers on the system. To promote a sponsored address and generate as much artificial traffic towards it as possible, the app will take control over several browser settings. These could include the homepage, new tab page, and the default search engine. Afterward, whenever the browser is opened, a new tab is started, or a search initiated in the address bar, it would immediately open the promoted address. Usually, browser hijackers are employed by fake search engines. The main characteristic of these dubious engines is that they cannot produce any meaningful results by themselves. That is why they redirect the search queries of the users to a legitimate engine such as Yahoo, Bing, and Google.

While PUPs are not considered to be a direct threat to the Mac system, it is still strongly recommended to remove them as soon as possible. After all, PUPs are known for spying on the user's browsing habits. Information such as the entire browsing history, search history, IP address of the device, geolocation, and more could be packaged and uploaded to a remote server. The operators of the PUP can then try to exploit the collected data themselves or try to sell it to interested third parties.