Tidings Adware
An installer containing the Tidings application was discovered to be promoted by deceptive websites. After infosec researchers analyzed the application, they determined that it exhibits the typical characteristics associated with adware, meaning it is advertising-supported software. Tidings operates by generating advertisements, and it also may possess additional harmful abilities.
Tidings Could Perform Various Invasive Actions
Adware is software that is designed to display intrusive advertisement campaigns on various interfaces. These advertisements are used to endorse online tactics, unreliable/harmful software and malware. In some cases, the intrusive advertisements can even perform stealthy downloads or installations when clicked.
Any genuine products or services that are encountered through these advertisements are most likely promoted by fraudsters who are abusing their affiliate programs to obtain illegitimate commissions.
Adware requires specific conditions to deliver its intrusive advertising campaigns, such as specific browsers, systems, or user geolocation, opening particular websites and so on. Regardless of whether Tidings displays advertisements or not, its presence on a system can threaten device integrity and user safety.
In addition to displaying intrusive advertisements, Tidings also may have data-tracking functionalities. Adware typically collects browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, finance-related information, and other data. The gathered data can be sold to third parties or used for other profit-driven purposes.
Be Aware of the Deceptive Tactics Abused in the Distribution of PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs)
Adware and Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) are typically spread through various deceptive methods. One common tactic is software bundling, which involves packaging the adware or PUP with legitimate software downloads, such as freeware or shareware. During the installation process, the user may unknowingly agree to install the bundled software as well.
Another way that adware and PUPs can spread is through deceptive online advertisements and pop-ups that mimic legitimate warnings or software updates. These advertisements may trick the user into downloading and installing the adware or PUP by presenting it as a necessary or helpful tool.
Social engineering tactics, such as phishing emails, also contribute to the spread of adware and PUPs. These emails may claim to offer free software or services, but actually contain links to download adware or PUPs.
Additionally, adware and PUPs can be spread through unsafe websites or compromised Web pages. These pages may contain misleading information or fake download buttons that lead to the installation of adware or PUPs.
