EssentialLoop
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.
| Threat Level: | 20 % (Normal) |
| Infected Computers: | 3 |
| First Seen: | May 9, 2023 |
| Last Seen: | July 31, 2023 |
The EssentialLoop application has been classified as adware by cybersecurity researchers. Typically adware applications operate by aggressively generating advertisements on the user's device. The advertisements could prove to be a massive disruption, as well as cause other potential privacy risks. EssentialLoop is targeted at Mac users specifically. Additionally, it has been confirmed that the application belongs to the infamous AdLoad adware family.
Adware Applications Like EssentialLoop Often Collect Browsing and Other User Data
Adware applications are designed for the specific purpose of delivering intrusive advertisements on visited websites and/or different interfaces. These advertisements can endorse various online tactics, adware browser hijackers, and other PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs). In some cases, the advertisements could be capable of performing stealthy downloads or installations when clicked. While legitimate content may be shown or promoted through these commercials, it is unlikely to be done so with the support of its actual developers. Far more often, the scammers abuse the product's affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.
Additionally, EssentialLoop is likely to be equipped with data-tracking functionalities that can collect information like browsing history, search history, IP addresses, Internet cookies, usernames and passwords, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers and more. All of the collected data can be sold to third parties or used by the operators of the application themselves in various fraudulent ways.
Users Often Install PUPs and Adware Unknowingly
PUPs and adware are commonly distributed in dubious ways, often using deceptive tactics to trick users. One of the most popular methods is through software bundling, where unwanted programs are included as an optional offer during the installation of legitimate software. In some cases, these offers may be pre-selected or buried in the installation process, leading users to install the unwanted program inadvertently.
Another method is through misleading advertising, where deceptive advertisements make false claims or offer fake software updates or threat scans. These advertisements may lead users to download and install the unwanted program.
Additionally, PUPs and adware can be spread through untrustworthy websites, where users are prompted to download and install software to access certain content or services. These websites may use social engineering tactics to convince users that the software is legitimate and necessary.
Email attachments and social media links can also be used to distribute PUPs and adware. Dubious links or attachments may be disguised as legitimate content, leading users to download and install the unwanted program unwittingly.
