PlusMethod

Mac users should beware of a new intrusive application that aims to install itself on their computer devices sneakily. Tracked as PlusMethod, this PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program) is capable of executing both adware and browser hijacker functions. When it comes to PUPs it is important to remember that these applications are not spread via the normal distribution channels. In the vast majority of cases, the intruder applications are instead packaged alongside another software product in a scheme known as bundling or placed inside fake installers/updates.

If PlusMethod manages to install itself on the Mac, it will begin to monetize its presence there as soon as possible. The application will run an intrusive ad campaign that will deliver numerous annoying and unwanted advertisements to the system. As a result, the user experience on the Mac could suffer tremendously. Furthermore, users should never approach the generated advertisements carelessly. Clicking on the advertisements delivered by such dubious sources could lead to forced redirects to suspicious third-party websites. Users could land on pages conducting various tactics or spreading additional PUPs.

The intrusive actions of PlusMethod do not stop there. The application also will establish control over the user's Web browsers. By modifying certain settings (homepage, new tab page, default search engine, etc.), the browser hijacker will start promoting a sponsored Web page. Typically, browser hijacker applications are tasked with generating artificial traffic towards a fake search engine, a search engine that lacks the ability to produce any results by itself.

PUPs have another serious red flag that should not be ignored - most applications of this type also are equipped with data-tracking abilities. The user's browsing activities may be tracked and transmitted to a remote server continuously. Various device details (IP address, geolocation, ISP, and many more) also could be exfiltrated.