AdAssistant Adware

Our researchers came across an application called AdAssistant while investigating deceptive websites. Upon examining this software, we determined that it falls into the category of adware. Furthermore, the installation package that included AdAssistant was bundled with rogue browser extensions, specifically Shop and Watch, ChatGPT Check, and NXD Fix.

Adware, short for advertising-supported software, is typically designed to conduct intrusive advertising campaigns. Normally, software of this type displays advertisements on visited websites or other interfaces. However, AdAssistant deviates from this pattern. Instead, it attaches itself to the taskbar, specifically to the notification area on the right side. Once accessed, it presents advertisements within the opened window.

Advertisements delivered by AdAssistant predominantly promote online scams, untrustworthy or harmful software, and even malware. These ads from AdAssistant also lead to various rogue, deceptive, and unsafe websites.

It's important to note that while legitimate content might occasionally appear in these ads, it's unlikely to be endorsed by the genuine developers or other official entities. More often, this promotion is carried out by scammers who exploit the products' affiliate programs to gain illegitimate commissions.

As mentioned earlier, the installer we analyzed, which included AdAssistant, also contained two browser hijackers (ChatGPT Check and NXD Fix) and an adware-type extension (Shop and Watch). It's worth mentioning that AdAssistant could potentially be distributed alongside additional malicious apps or extensions.

Furthermore, AdAssistant may possess data-tracking capabilities, similar to the bundled browser extensions. The information collected may encompass browsing and search engine histories, internet cookies, usernames and passwords, personally identifiable details, financial data, and more. This gathered data can then be sold to third parties or otherwise exploited for profit.

How Can Adware Alter Your Browsing Experience?

Adware can significantly alter your browsing experience in various ways, typically in a negative and intrusive manner. Here are some of the common ways in which adware can impact your online activities:

• Displaying Excessive Ads: Adware inundates your web browser with a high volume of advertisements, including pop-ups, banners, in-text ads, and video ads. These ads can cover the content you're trying to view and disrupt your reading or browsing.
• Redirecting Web Traffic: Adware often redirects your web traffic to advertising or sponsored websites, even if you didn't intend to visit those sites. This can be frustrating and can lead to accidental clicks on unwanted content.
• Altering Browser Settings: Some adware modifies your browser settings without your consent. This can include changes to the default search engine, homepage, and new tab page. These alterations can be challenging to reverse.
• Slowing Down Performance: Adware can consume system resources, causing your browser and computer to run slowly. This slowdown can make your browsing experience frustrating and less efficient.
• Tracking Your Online Activities: Adware may track your online behavior, including the websites you visit, search queries, and the content you interact with. This data is often used to deliver targeted advertisements but can also raise privacy concerns.
• Promoting Unwanted Software: Adware may display fake alerts or prompts encouraging you to download or install other software, which could be potentially harmful or unwanted.
• Compromising Privacy: Adware can compromise your online privacy by collecting personal information and browsing history. This data can be exploited for various purposes, including identity theft and targeted advertising.