EssentialType

EssentialType is an adware program that uses deceptive distribution methods to sneak itself onto the computers and devices of users in the Apple ecosystem. Due to the dubious marketing strategies it employs, such as bundling or being disguised as a software updater or installer, EssentialType also is classified by the cybersecurity community as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program).

Although some PUPs may indeed have features that some users find useful, it is strongly advised to never keep such programs present on your devices. PUP may not be able to directly harm the system they are installed on but they will lead to diminished user experience and potentially increased security risks.

The main purpose of adware applications is to monetize their presence through the delivery of intrusive advertisements. The advertising materials may take the form of annoying pop-ups that cover the legitimate content viewed by the user, forced redirects, hyperlinked text, banners, coupons, surveys, etc. Clicking on the advertisements could bring the user to untrustworthy or outright compromised destinations. Exposure to online tactics such as dedicated phishing pages that scrape all entered information or domains propagating additional PUPs is among the common redirect targets.

PUPs also are known for spying on the browsing activities performed on the system. Users will have their search history, visited websites, clicked URLs, etc. logged and then exfiltrated to the creators of the PUP.