DiscoveryHandler

DiscoveryHandler is an annoying and intrusive PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program) that targeted Mac users specifically. All applications of this type rely on questionable methods for their distribution. The goal is to avoid being noticed and they achieve this by hiding their installation through a scheme known as bundling or via outright fake installers/updaters.

DiscoveryHandler's Functionality

Once deployed on the Mac, DiscoveryHandler will not waste time monetizing its presence there. The annoying application will start running an intrusive advertisement campaign where countless unwanted advertisements will be delivered to the system. The show ads could appear as pop-ups, banners, surveys, in-text links, etc. They also could start overlaying the legitimate sites opened by users resulting in a severely diminished browsing experience. Furthermore, engaging with them could trigger forced redirects leading to suspicious or unsafe websites.

Meanwhile, DiscoveryHandler also will establish control over the installed Web browser. The application will target the homepage, new tab page, and the default search engine settings specifically. All three will now be set to open a promoted address, typically one belonging to a fake search engine.

Harvesting Data

PUPs are not considered malware, as they do not pose a direct threat. Keeping them installed on your Mac should still be avoided. After all, apart from the other annoying consequences, PUPs are also known for possessing data-collection routines. They might be spying on the online activities of the users. More specifically, the intrusive applications could be harvesting the browsing history, all conducted searches and every clicked URL. Some even collect numerous device details with the IP address, geolocation, ISP, and browser type being some of them. Cybersecurity experts recommended deleting all PUPs as soon as possible, preferably with a professional security solution that can guarantee complete removal.