Videostream
VideoStream is a Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP) that typically enters your system via a browser extension or program. Its main objective is to serve unwanted advertisements and take control of the browsing activities on the user's Mac. Once VideoStream has infiltrated the Mac device, it begins injecting advertisements into the websites the users are visiting and rerouting their search queries.
To achieve this, VideoStream uses a browser extension or program to take over your browser's homepage and search engine settings, replacing them with its own. The advertisements that VideoStream displays on the browser are unrelated to the websites users visit and are mainly meant to generate revenue through advertising.
Moreover, VideoStream uses a search engine called VideoStream Search, which it redirects the initiated search queries through. This search engine will then further redirect the search results to pages on search.yahoo.com, potentially generating additional revenue for the attackers. In addition to unwanted advertisements, VideoStream also may open new tabs in your browser that display advertisements trying to sell software, fake software updates and technical support frauds.
How PUPs and Browser Hijackers Like Videostream Infiltrate Users' Devices?
Browser hijackers and PUPs are typically distributed using various methods that take advantage of common user behaviors and vulnerabilities.
One common method is through the use of software bundling. PUPs and browser hijackers are often bundled with other software that users willingly download and install. These bundling techniques may be used in popular software, such as freeware, shareware or updates for popular applications. This allows the unwanted software to piggyback onto legitimate downloads and installations, resulting in the PUPs and browser hijackers getting installed without the user's knowledge or consent.
Another method is phishing attacks, where the attackers send fake emails or messages that encourage users to access a link or download a file. Once the user clicks on the link or downloads the file, the PUP or browser hijacker is downloaded and installed onto the system.
Additionally, some browser hijackers and PUPs are distributed through drive-by downloads. These are downloads that occur without any user interaction and typically result from visiting unsafe or compromised websites. Attackers also may use social engineering tactics to trick users into clicking on links or downloading files that lead to the installation of PUPs and browser hijackers.
To avoid these unwanted software, you should practice safe browsing habits, such as being cautious when downloading software from unverified sources, keeping anti-malware software updated and using a reputable ad-blocker. Review the list of installed programs on a system regularly and remove any PUPs or browser hijackers as soon as they are detected.
