AssistiveConnection Mac Adware

AssistiveConnection is an adware application that our research team came across while examining new file submissions. This app belongs to the AdLoad malware family and operates by running intrusive advertising campaigns.

Adware, short for advertising-supported software, facilitates the display of advertisements on various interfaces, including websites, desktops, and others. These third-party visual contents typically promote online scams, untrustworthy or dangerous software, and even malware. Clicking on some of these ads can trigger scripts that initiate downloads or installations without the user's consent.

Adware may not display intrusive ad campaigns if the user's browser or system specifications are incompatible, certain websites are not visited, or other conditions are unfavorable. Nonetheless, even if AssistiveConnection shows ads infrequently, it remains a threat to device and user security.

AdLoad applications often exhibit browser hijacking characteristics, but during our testing, the AssistiveConnection app did not display such traits.

This adware may also include data-tracking features, as is typical for software in this category. The data targeted for collection may encompass browsing and search engine histories, internet cookies, usernames, passwords, personally identifiable information, credit card numbers, and more. The collected information can then be re-sold to other parties or exploited in other ways.

What is the AdLoad Adware Family of Clones?

The AdLoad adware family is a group of adware programs known for their intrusive and often unwanted advertising practices. AdLoad and its various clones are typically designed to deliver a wide range of ads, including pop-up ads, banners, in-text ads, and other forms of online advertising. These adware programs can be installed on a user's computer without their explicit consent, often bundled with freeware or shareware applications.

The key characteristics and behaviors associated with the AdLoad adware family and its clones include:

• Intrusive Advertising: AdLoad adware and its variants flood the user's web browser with advertisements. These ads can be highly disruptive and annoying, negatively impacting the user's browsing experience.
• Data Collection: AdLoad adware often collects user data, including browsing history, search queries, and other online activities. This information may be used for targeted advertising or potentially sold to third parties.
• Browser Hijacking: Some members of the AdLoad family may exhibit browser hijacking behavior, altering the user's browser settings without permission, such as changing the default search engine or homepage.
• Software Bundling: AdLoad and its clones are frequently distributed through software bundling, where they are included as "optional" components in the installation of other software. Users may unknowingly install the adware when installing legitimate software.
• Proliferation: AdLoad clones often spread rapidly, with new variants and versions appearing regularly. They may be difficult to remove completely, as they may have persistence mechanisms that allow them to reinstall themselves even after removal.
• Revenue Generation: The primary purpose of AdLoad and its clones is to generate revenue for their creators through pay-per-click advertising and affiliate marketing programs. Advertisers pay for each click or view of their ads, which benefits the adware creators.

It's important to note that the specific behaviors and impact of AdLoad and its clones may evolve over time, as new variants and versions are developed. To protect your computer from adware like AdLoad, it's essential to exercise caution when downloading and installing software from the internet. Always choose custom installation options to review and deselect any bundled software components. Additionally, keep your security software and browser extensions up-to-date to help detect and block adware.