BrowseFrequency Found to be Aggressive Adware Affecting MacOS Computers
BrowseFrequency is an application that has garnered attention due to its association with the AdLoad malware family, specifically categorized as adware. Adware, short for advertising-supported software, is a type of software that generates revenue for its creators by inundating users with undesirable and often deceptive advertisements. These advertisements can take various forms, including pop-ups, banners, overlays, coupons, and more, and they can appear on websites, desktops, or other interfaces.
One distinctive characteristic of adware like BrowseFrequency is its potential to tailor its ad campaigns based on specific conditions. This might involve factors such as the user's browser or system compatibility, geolocation, visits to particular websites, and more. Regardless of the precise conditions for ad display, the presence of BrowseFrequency on a system poses a threat to the user's online experience and security.
Can you trust BrowseFrequency ads?
The advertisements displayed by adware like BrowseFrequency predominantly promote online scams, untrustworthy or hazardous software, and even potential malware. Some of these intrusive ads can execute scripts upon clicking, potentially leading to stealthy downloads and installations of malicious software. It's important to note that while legitimate products or services may occasionally appear in these ads, they are unlikely to be endorsed in this manner by official entities. More often than not, these promotions are orchestrated by scammers who exploit affiliate programs to gain illegitimate commissions.
It's worth mentioning that adware applications, particularly those in the AdLoad family, often possess browser-hijacking capabilities. However, in the case of BrowseFrequency, it did not exhibit these traits during the research analysis.
Additionally, BrowseFrequency is likely involved in the collection of sensitive user information. This data may include URLs visited, webpages viewed, search queries, internet cookies, login credentials, personally identifiable information, and even credit card numbers. The gathered information can then be sold to third parties for monetization purposes, raising concerns about user privacy and security.
Stopping and Removing BrowseFrequency
If you find yourself continuously encountering suspicious advertisements and redirects, take immediate action to check your device for suspect applications and remove any questionable browser extensions or plug-ins. If your computer is already infected with BrowseFrequency or similar adware, consider running a scan with a reputable antivirus program to automatically eliminate the threat, ensuring the security and integrity of your system.
