PUP.Downware

Threat Scorecard

Ranking: 3,245
Threat Level: 10 % (Normal)
Infected Computers: 15,096
First Seen: September 20, 2013
Last Seen: September 19, 2023
OS(es) Affected: Windows

Although classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Programs), Downware infections are typically more complicated than your typical PUP threat. Commonly, these types of threats take the form of Web browser add-ons or extensions designed to cause problems on the user's computer. While they are often installed by the computer user's themselves, these types of infections may also be a consequence of another, more sophisticated threats. However, the most common way in which Downware enters a computer is after installing a free application that is bundled with these types of components. ESG security researchers strongly advise computer users to remove Downware if their computer is showing symptoms of this type of infection. A reliable anti-malware program should be used immediately to ensure that no distrustful content has been installed as a consequence of a Downware infection or that no preexisting threat on the user's computer is responsible for the appearance of symptoms associated with Downware.

To Perceive Downware's Presence You Need to Notice Its Symptoms

If Downware has been installed on your computer, you may not realize its presence unless your security software alerts you of its presence. However, Downware has been known to cause unmistakeable symptoms on the affected computer's Web browser. The following are common issues that have been linked to Downware infections and similar types of PUPs:

  • One of the most common issues associated with Downware is the presence of browser redirects. This means that the user's Web browser may be forced to visit specific websites. Essentially, Downware may cause the computer user to lose control over the affected Web browser, which may be directed to low quality search engines and other, similar websites, designed to display advertisements, marketing material and similar content.
  • Downware may also cause pop-up windows and suspicious error messages to appear on the affected Web browser. As with browser redirects, Downware pop-ups are designed to expose computer users to online marketing content.
  • One of the most visible symptoms of Downware is the presence of unauthorized changes to your Web browser's default preset websites. For example, the affected Web browser's homepage and default search engine may be changed to a website associated with Downware as a way of exposing computer users to these websites' content as soon as the affected Web browser starts up.

URLs

PUP.Downware may call the following URLs:

.stream-me.com
achlljpejolghjfdhidbhpolhpkofdeh
feed.stream-me.com/?q

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