SkilledNetwork
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.
| Threat Level: | 20 % (Normal) |
| Infected Computers: | 2 |
| First Seen: | March 1, 2022 |
| Last Seen: | July 26, 2022 |
Researchers have uncovered a concerning application called SkilledNetwork, which is targeted at Mac users. Upon analyzing this app, it was determined that it operates as advertising-supported software (adware). SkilledNetwork also is a member of the AdLoad adware family, which adds to its overall risk and potential harm to users. It is strongly advised that users exercise caution and take necessary measures to protect their devices against this type of intrusive software.
Adware Applications Like SkilledNetwork Often Have Intrusive Capabilities
Adware applications are created to show intrusive advertisements. These advertisements can take the form of pop-ups, banners, overlays, surveys, and other similar types of advertising. However, these advertisements also could promote online tactics, untrustworthy or harmful software and even malware.
Some intrusive advertisements can perform downloads or installations without the user's consent. It is also important to note that legitimate content may occasionally appear in these advertisements, but it is unlikely to be endorsed by its actual developers. In most cases, scammers who abuse the products' affiliate programs promote this content to obtain illegitimate commissions.
While adware may not display ads if the browser or system is incompatible, specific websites are not visited, or other conditions are unsuitable, it could still pose a threat to device integrity and the user's privacy. Additionally, adware like SkilledNetwork may have browser-hijacking qualities that allow it to control a user's browsing experience, although such behavior was not observed during the analysis.
Moreover, SkilledNetwork is likely capable of tracking user data, including visited URLs, viewed pages, searched queries, Internet cookies, usernames and passwords, personally identifiable details and credit card numbers. This collected data may even be sold to third parties or otherwise exploited for profit.
Users Should Know about the Shady Tactics Involved in the Distribution of Adware and PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs)
Adware and PUPs are software programs that are designed to display unwanted advertisements or collect user data without the user's consent. The distribution of such programs involves a variety of shady tactics that can be harmful to the user's privacy and computer security.
One of the tactics most used by adware and PUP distributors is bundling. This involves packaging the adware or PUP with other software programs that the user is intentionally downloading, often through deceptive or unclear installation prompts. Users may unknowingly agree to install the adware or PUP as a result.
Another tactic is to use misleading advertisements and pop-ups to trick users into downloading and installing adware or PUPs. For example, an ad might claim that the user needs to update their software or that their computer is infected with a virus. Clicking on the ad will then download the adware or PUP onto the user's computer.
Some distributors also use social engineering techniques to persuade users to download and install adware or PUPs. This might involve posing as a legitimate software company or customer support service, and using scare tactics or promises of improved performance to convince users to install the software.
Overall, the distribution of adware and PUPs involves a range of deceptive and unethical tactics that can put users at risk. Users are counseled to be cautious when downloading software and only to download it from reputable sources to avoid these risks.
