Smart-browsing Browser Extension
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: | 8,504 |
| Threat Level: | 50 % (Medium) |
| Infected Computers: | 23 |
| First Seen: | May 11, 2023 |
| Last Seen: | September 26, 2023 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
Cybersecurity researchers have discovered that Smart-browsing, a program that claims to enhance users' Web browsing experience, instead displays intrusive and bothersome advertisements. These advertisements can redirect users to websites that are untrustworthy, potentially harmful, or unwanted. Therefore, based on their findings, the researchers have classified Smart-browsing as adware.
Adware Applications Like Smart-browsing may Have a Plethora of Negative Consequences
Smart browsing is a browser extension that is advertised to enhance users' Web browsing experience. However, upon installation, users may experience intrusive and bothersome advertisements. This software is commonly known as adware. Adware generates various types of advertisements, such as pop-ups and banners, that may redirect users to different websites.
Some of the websites that adware can lead users to may be legitimate and non-threatening, such as e-commerce sites or news portals. However, other sites may be suspicious and harmful, such as phishing websites or those that distribute malware. Adware also may lead users to pages designed to steal their personal information, such as login credentials or credit card numbers.
Moreover, the presence of adware on users' devices also may pose privacy risks. Some adware programs are capable of collecting data about user's browsing habits, installing additional PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs), and causing computer performance issues. For these reasons, it is recommended that users do not trust Smart-browsing and other similar applications.
PUPs and Adware Rely Heavily on Shady Distribution Tactics
PUPs and adware use various tactics for their distribution, some of which are considered shady. One common tactic is bundling, where the adware or PUP is included as an additional program in a software bundle. Users may unknowingly install the adware or PUP when they download and install the legitimate software.
Another tactic is malvertising, where advertisements containing malware or links to malicious websites are displayed on legitimate websites. Users may inadvertently click on these advertisements, which can lead to the installation of adware or PUPs.
PUPs and adware also may use deceptive pop-ups or warnings to trick users into downloading or installing their software. These pop-ups may claim that the users' systems are infected or they need to update their software when in reality, the pop-up is part of the adware or PUP.
Some adware and PUPs also may use social engineering tricks to trick users into downloading or installing their software. For example, they may use fake download buttons or misleading information to convince users to click on a link or download a program.
Overall, PUPs and adware use various deceptive tactics to distribute their software and convince users to install it. Users should be extra cautious when downloading software or clicking on ads and should always verify the legitimacy of the software before installing it.
