IndexerProject

Another dubious application targeting Mac users has been detected by infosec researchers. Named IndexerProject, it combines the functionalities of adware with those of a browser hijacker. The cases where users install such applications intentionally are extremely low. It is far more likely that IndexerProject managed to sneak itself onto the user's Mac system via a deceptive distribution technique. One such method is called bundling. It involves packaging the dubious application alongside a more legitimate software product. Whenever users initiate the installation process, the hidden application is already selected as an option under the 'Custom' or 'Advanced' settings. Users have to look for and deselect it specifically. This underhanded behavior justifies IndexerProject being also classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program).

There are multiple negative consequences related to the presence of a PUP such as IndexerProcet on your computer. The adware functionality will diminish the user experience on the device severely, by generating numerous intrusive and unwanted advertisements. Users will be flooded with pop-ups, banners, coupons and more. At the same time, the browser hijacker will modify certain settings of the Web browser. The homepage, new tab page, and the default search engine will begin to open a sponsored link, typically that of a fake search engine. Fake engines cannot produce results on their own and instead redirect the user's search queries to a legitimate engine such as Yahoo, Bing or Google. 

Both the advertisements delivered by IndexerProject and the listed search results should be approached with caution. The advertisements could redirect to unsafe third-party websites while the results could have sponsored links injected among them. In addition, PUPs are known to track the browsing activities of the user. These apps could be able to access the search history, browsing history, clicked URLs, IP address, geolocation and more.