One Click Refresh

Threat Scorecard

Ranking: 8,502
Threat Level: 20 % (Normal)
Infected Computers: 32
First Seen: April 30, 2023
Last Seen: September 27, 2023
OS(es) Affected: Windows

Infosec researchers discovered the One Click Refresh browser extension, which is marketed as a tool that simplifies the process of refreshing multiple tabs with a single click. However, upon analyzing the extension further, it was found that it functions as adware, displaying unwanted advertisements and promotions on the user's device.

Adware Like the One Click Refresh Often Have Intrusive Capabilities

Adware applications typically deliver annoying and dubious advertisements to the user. This means that it displays advertisements on visited websites and possibly other interfaces. These advertisements often promote various tech support scams, phishing schemes, fake giveaways, and untrustworthy or hazardous software. Some of these intrusive advertisements may even be able to execute scripts when clicked on, which perform downloads and installations without the user's permission.

Any genuine content encountered through these advertisements is likely promoted by fraudsters who abuse affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.

Moreover, the One Click Refresh extension likely has data-tracking functionalities. It may collect different types of information of interest, including visited URLs, viewed pages, search queries, Internet cookies, etc. Some adware and PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) have also been observed to collect personally identifiable details, account log-in credentials, finance-related data, and so forth. This information could be exploited by the developers of the PUP or sold to third-party companies.

Users Rarely Download PUPs and Adware Intentionally

PUPs and adware use various tactics for distribution, many of which are deceptive or misleading. One common tactic is bundling their installation with other software programs that users download and install on their systems. This method is often used to spread PUPs and adware as users may not be aware that they are agreeing to install these programs.

Another tactic is the use of deceptive pop-up ads and false claims to trick users into installing PUPs and adware. Social engineering tactics may also be used, such as fake update alerts or security warnings, to persuade users to agree to the installation.

Spam or phishing emails also may be used to distribute these types of dubious software. This involves sending unsolicited emails or messages that appear to be legitimate and contain links to download the software.

Overall, PUPs and Adware use a range of deceptive tactics to distribute themselves, often relying on users' lack of awareness or trust in legitimate sources of software.

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