OperativeBitUnit

OperativeBitUnit is a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program) that is using deceptive distribution methods to spread itself among Mac users. The app has been observed to hid inside a fake Adobe Flash Player installer. Once inside the Mac system, OperativeBitUnit can act as adware, browser hijacker, and a data-collector at the same time. 

The PUP will first monetize its presence through adware activities. As a result, the user experience on the system will be diminished severely due to the frequent appearance of intrusive and unwanted advertising materials. The ads are more than simply being annoying as they could take the user to unsafe third-party websites through forced redirects. The browser hijacker part of OperativeBitUnit will take over certain browser settings, such as the homepage, new page tab, and the default search engine. The goal is to promote a fake search engine that will be opened every time the browser is started, a new tab is opened, or a search query is initiated in the URL bar. 

The most dangerous aspect of OperativeBitUnit, however, is its data-harvesting capability. The PUP will attempt to access sensitive user data that will then be uploaded to a remote server. The tracked information could include all visited websites, clicked URLs, conducted searchers, and system details such as the device's geolocation, IP address, and ISP (Internet Service Provider). The most dangerous apps of this type can also access credit, payment, and banking details if such information has been saved in the affected browser.