Fetchzilla

Fetchzilla is a browser extension that has come under the scrutiny of cybersecurity researchers during their investigation into suspicious online platforms. This particular extension is marketed as a seemingly helpful tool designed to streamline the process of downloading various types of media, such as images, from the Internet. However, after a closer examination, it becomes evident that Fetchzilla engages in the distribution of intrusive and unwelcome advertisements.

In essence, Fetchzilla operates in a deceptive manner by presenting itself as a utility for Web media retrieval while actually subjecting users to a barrage of unwanted and misleading advertisements. This shady behavior not only undermines the trust of users but also can disrupt their online experience by inundating them with advertisements that they did.

Adware Like Fetchzilla could Perform Various Unwanted Actions Once Installed

Adware represents a category of software intentionally designed to execute intrusive advertising campaigns. This type of software functions by displaying advertisements on visited websites and possibly other user interfaces, often without consent or user control.

The primary objective of adware is to deliver third-party graphical content that predominantly promotes various online tactics, untrustworthy or harmful software, and, in some alarming cases, even unsafe software. Some of these advertisements, when clicked on, can execute scripts that trigger downloads or installations on the user's device, all without their explicit permission.

It is crucial to recognize that while these advertisements might occasionally showcase legitimate content, it is highly improbable that any official party would endorse or distribute it through such means. More often than not, these promotions are orchestrated by scammers who exploit product affiliate programs to gain illegitimate commissions.

Fetchzilla likely engages in the collection of sensitive information from the user. The data of interest could encompass a wide range of details, such as visited URLs, viewed Web pages, search queries, Internet cookies, login credentials for online accounts and even financial-related information. The collected data can subsequently be sold to third parties or exploited for profit, thereby infringing upon the user's privacy and potentially leading to further security risks.

Adware Applications may Try to Hide Their Installation from Users' Attention

Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) and adware often employ various distribution tactics to infiltrate users' devices and browsers. These tactics are typically designed to catch users off guard and trick them into unwittingly installing the unwanted software. Here are some common distribution tactics employed by PUPs and adware:

Bundled Software: PUPs and adware are frequently bundled with legitimate software downloads. Users may inadvertently install them when they download and install seemingly harmless applications from the Internet. This tactic is known as "bundling."

Freeware and Shareware: PUPs and adware often hitch a ride with free or shareware programs. Users who download these free applications may not notice that additional, unwanted software is included in the installation package.

Fake Updates: Threatening websites sometimes present fake update notifications for popular software, browsers or plugins. Users who click on these notifications may end up downloading PUPs or adware instead of legitimate updates.

Deceptive Advertisements: Adware can be distributed through deceptive online advertisements that encourage users to click on them. These advertisements might promise free software, prizes, or other enticing offers, but clicking on them may trigger unwanted downloads.

Phishing Emails: PUPs and adware can also be distributed through phishing emails that trick recipients into clicking on unsafe links or downloading infected attachments.

Browser Extensions and Add-ons: Adware often disguises itself as browser extensions or add-ons. Users might be prompted to install these seemingly harmless browser enhancements, which later bombard them with unwanted advertisements.

File-Sharing Platforms: Users who download files from Peer-to-Peer (P2P) or torrent websites might unknowingly acquire PUPs or adware bundled with the files they download.

Social Engineering: Some PUPs and adware employ social engineering tactics, like fake security warnings or urgent messages, to persuade users to take actions that result in the installation of unwanted software.

To protect against PUPs and adware, it's essential for users to exercise caution when downloading software, especially free or unfamiliar programs. Always download software from reputable sources, keep your operating system and software up to date, use reputable anti-malware software, and be wary of deceptive advertisements and suspicious email attachments. Additionally, review and manage your browser extensions and installed software regularly to remove any potentially unwanted programs.