Atechny Adware
Our research team came across Atechny, a deceptive application, while routinely examining new file samples. Upon thorough analysis, we confirmed that it functions as adware affiliated with the Pirrit family. Atechny specializes in conducting intrusive advertising campaigns and may possess additional detrimental functionalities.
Adware, short for advertising-supported software, facilitates the display of third-party graphical content, such as pop-ups, banners, overlays, and coupons, on various interfaces and visited websites. Beyond causing a decline in the browsing experience and system performance, these advertisements often promote online scams, unreliable software, and even malware. Clicking on certain ads can trigger the execution of scripts, leading to discreet downloads or installations.
It's important to note that while legitimate products or services may be advertised through these means, they are highly unlikely to be officially endorsed in this manner. The promotion is more likely orchestrated by scammers exploiting affiliate programs to gain unauthorized commissions.
Although Atechny may require specific conditions to execute intrusive ad campaigns, such as a specific browser or system, its mere presence poses a threat to device and user safety, even if it doesn't display ads.
Our investigation did not reveal any browser-hijacking capabilities in this rogue application, although past Pirrit adware samples have exhibited such functionalities.
Furthermore, Atechny is presumed to engage in data tracking, a standard feature of adware. The collected information may encompass browsing and search engine histories, Internet cookies, usernames and passwords, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and more. This gathered data can be shared with or sold to third parties.
How Can Adware Impact Your Online Safety?
Adware can significantly impact your online safety in various ways, posing risks to both your digital well-being and personal information. Here are several ways in which adware can compromise your online safety:
Intrusive Advertising:
Adware inundates your online experience with intrusive and unwanted advertisements, including pop-ups, banners, overlays, and more. This not only disrupts your browsing but may also lead you to click on potentially harmful ads.
Promotion of Scams and Malware:
Adware often promotes online scams, unreliable software, and even malware. Clicking on ads generated by adware can lead to the unintentional download and installation of malicious programs on your device.
Stealthy Downloads and Installations:
Some adware-infested ads may execute scripts that initiate stealthy downloads or installations without your explicit consent. This poses a significant threat to the security of your device.
Privacy Concerns:
Adware often tracks your online activities, including browsing history, search queries, and clicked links. This collected data is then used for targeted advertising or may be shared with third parties without your consent, compromising your privacy.
Redirects to Deceptive Websites:
Adware may redirect you to deceptive websites, increasing the risk of encountering phishing sites, fake updates, or other malicious content. These websites may attempt to trick you into revealing sensitive information.
Affiliate Marketing Abuse:
Adware creators may exploit affiliate marketing programs to gain commissions by promoting certain products or services. This could lead to deceptive advertising practices aimed at generating revenue at your expense.
