DefaultBoost is an AdLoad Variant
Our research team came across the DefaultBoost rogue application during a routine evaluation of new file sample submissions. Upon investigation, we determined that DefaultBoost is adware affiliated with the AdLoad malware family. Its primary purpose is to generate revenue for its developers by delivering unwanted and potentially malicious advertisements to users.
Adware, short for advertising-supported software, facilitates the display of various types of ads (e.g., pop-ups, coupons, surveys, overlays, etc.) on websites visited by users and other interfaces.
These advertisements primarily promote online scams, untrustworthy or harmful software, and even potential malware. Some of these ads can initiate covert downloads or installations when clicked (i.e., by user interaction).
It's important to note that any legitimate products or services advertised through these ads are most likely endorsed by scammers exploiting affiliate programs to gain unauthorized commissions.
Adware may require specific conditions to execute intrusive advertising campaigns, such as a compatible browser/system or user geolocation, visits to particular websites, and more. Even if DefaultBoost does not currently display ads, it still poses a threat to both device and user security.
Furthermore, while AdLoad applications often possess browser-hijacking capabilities, we did not observe such functionalities in our analysis of DefaultBoost.
Additionally, DefaultBoost likely includes data-tracking features. This functionality may collect targeted information, including browsing and search engine histories, browser cookies, usernames, passwords, personally identifiable information, credit card numbers, and more. The collected data can be sold to third parties or exploited for financial gain.
How Can Adware Impact Your Browsing Experience?
Adware can have a significant impact on your browsing experience, often in negative and disruptive ways. Here are some common ways adware can affect your online activities:
- Excessive Advertisements: Adware floods your web pages with a barrage of intrusive ads, including pop-ups, banners, interstitials, and more. These ads can make it difficult to focus on the content you're trying to view.
- Browser Slowdown: Adware can consume system resources, slowing down your web browser's performance. This can result in slower page loading times, unresponsiveness, and overall frustration.
- Browser Crashes: In some cases, adware can destabilize your web browser, leading to frequent crashes or freezing, making it challenging to browse the internet smoothly.
- Redirects: Adware may redirect your web searches or website visits to unwanted or potentially harmful websites. This can lead to privacy concerns and expose you to scams or malware.
- Altered Homepage or Search Engine: Some adware may change your browser's homepage or default search engine without your consent, making it inconvenient to access your preferred sites and search engines.
- Tracking and Privacy Concerns: Adware often tracks your online behavior, collecting data on your browsing habits, searches, and the websites you visit. This data can be sold to third parties, compromising your privacy.
- Unwanted Software Installations: Some adware may bundle with other potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) or even malware. These additional installations can further degrade your browsing experience and compromise your system's security.
- Browser Toolbars and Extensions: Adware may install browser toolbars or extensions that change your browser's functionality and appearance, often without your permission.
- Annoying Notifications: Adware can display notifications, alerts, or messages that pester you with offers, promotions, or deceptive warnings.
- Search Result Manipulation: Adware may inject advertisements into your search results, making it challenging to distinguish between genuine search results and paid ads.
