Picture in Picture - PiP View
Threat Scorecard
EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecard
EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards are assessment reports for different malware threats which have been collected and analyzed by our research team. EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards evaluate and rank threats using several metrics including real-world and potential risk factors, trends, frequency, prevalence, and persistence. EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards are updated regularly based on our research data and metrics and are useful for a wide range of computer users, from end users seeking solutions to remove malware from their systems to security experts analyzing threats.
EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards display a variety of useful information, including:
Ranking: The ranking of a particular threat in EnigmaSoft’s Threat Database.
Severity Level: The determined severity level of an object, represented numerically, based on our risk modeling process and research, as explained in our Threat Assessment Criteria.
Infected Computers: The number of confirmed and suspected cases of a particular threat detected on infected computers as reported by SpyHunter.
See also Threat Assessment Criteria.
| Ranking: | 6,092 |
| Threat Level: | 20 % (Normal) |
| Infected Computers: | 47 |
| First Seen: | June 8, 2023 |
| Last Seen: | September 7, 2023 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
During the assessment conducted by cybersecurity specialists, it was determined that the Picture in Picture - PiP View application serves dual purposes, functioning as both an advertising-supported application (adware) and a browser hijacker. This particular software not only generates intrusive advertisements but also hijacks users' Web browsers by modifying certain settings without explicit consent.
Furthermore, it is uncommon for users to seek out and intentionally download or install such applications deliberately. Instead, they often encounter them as a result of forced redirects to shady destinations or after engaging with dubious online content.
Picture in Picture - PiP View Possess Various Intrusive Capabilities
The Picture in Picture - PiP View application has the ability to display unwelcome advertisements, contributing to a disruptive and potentially risky browsing experience. These advertisements, facilitated by the application, have the ability to redirect users to various types of Web pages, including those that harbor deceptive content, engage in phishing activities, perpetrate online tactics or promote undesirable and potentially harmful software.
Interacting with these pages, as well as the advertisements presented by the Picture in Picture - PiP View application, can expose users to various risks and negative consequences. For instance, visiting deceptive websites can lead to phishing attacks, wherein sensitive information may be compromised, data breaches can occur, system performance may be adversely affected, and privacy issues can arise. Therefore, it is necessary to exercise caution and refrain from engaging with such pages and advertisements to minimize the potential harm associated with them.
Furthermore, the Picture in Picture - PiP View application also functions as a browser hijacker, altering the behavior of users' Web browsers. Upon opening a new tab, users are redirected to the web address pipviewer.com/search.html, which in turn leads them to the legitimate search engine, Google. However, it is important to note that pipviewer.com/search.html is a deceptive Web page masquerading as a search engine, presenting search results sourced from Google.
Fake search engines like pipviewer.com/search.html should not be trusted due to their inherent risks to user privacy and security. These fake search engines often have the ability to track and collect user data, including search queries and browsing patterns, which can be utilized for targeted advertising purposes or even sold to third parties. Additionally, they can manipulate search results to promote rogue websites, phishing tactics, or low-quality content, compromising the user's ability to access reliable and relevant information.
PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) Utilize Deceptive Methods to Get Installed on Users' Devices
PUPs employ various deceptive methods to infiltrate and get installed on users' devices. These methods are designed to mislead users and trick them into unintentionally downloading or installing unwanted software.
One common deceptive method used by PUPs is bundling. PUPs often come bundled with legitimate software or freeware that users willingly download and install. During the installation process, users may be presented with misleading or confusing options, such as pre-selected checkboxes or hidden disclosures, which result in the installation of additional unwanted programs without the user's knowledge or explicit consent.
PUPs also may exploit misleading advertisements or deceptive download buttons on websites. These advertisements or buttons may mimic legitimate download links or falsely claim to provide a desired file or software update. When users click on these deceptive elements, they are redirected to a download page that contains the PUP, leading to its installation on their devices.
In some cases, PUPs use social engineering tactics to manipulate users into installing them. This can involve displaying alarming messages or fake system alerts that falsely claim the user's device is infected with viruses or other security threats. The deceptive messages urge users to take immediate action by downloading and installing the offered software, which is actually the PUP itself.
Overall, the deceptive methods employed by PUPs are intended to exploit users' trust and lack of awareness. By using misleading bundling practices, deceptive advertisements, social engineering tactics, software vulnerabilities, and false marketing techniques, PUPs aim to infiltrate users' devices and establish themselves as unwanted programs without the user's informed consent.
