PlatformFormat

PlatformFormat is a dubious application that tries to sneak its way onto users' Mac devices. Indeed, this PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program) has been observed being spread via untrustworthy websites that advertise it to users as a seemingly useful application. However, once installed on the Mac, PlatformFormat quickly shows that its primary functionality is that of adware.

Adware applications are designed to monetize their presence by generating intrusive and annoying advertisements on the user's device. Apart from disrupting any activities that might be carried out on the system, the displayed advertisements could be promoting questionable online platforms, fake giveaways, phishing schemes and other online tactics. The advertisements also could try to convince users to download additional disguised PUPs.

The problems caused by adware and PUPs may not stop there. These applications are often capable of establishing persistence mechanisms to ensure their continued presence on the user's device. As a result, manual removal of the specific unwanted application could be difficult. While they are still active, the PUPs may try to collect various data and transmit it to their operators. Infosec experts have observed such applications targeting users' browsing data, device details, and even information contained in Web browsers' autofill data, such as account credentials or banking/payment details.