DefaultProgram Mac Adware
Our team identified the DefaultProgram application during an examination of new file submissions. This software is involved in running aggressive advertising campaigns, categorizing it as adware and associating it with the AdLoad malware family.
Adware, short for advertising-supported software, is characterized by the display of ads on websites and various interfaces. DefaultProgram, being part of the AdLoad malware family, generates third-party graphical content such as pop-ups, overlays, banners, and surveys. This content primarily promotes online scams, unreliable software, and even malware. Clicking on some of these ads may trigger scripts to initiate downloads or installations without the user's consent.
It's important to note that while genuine products or services may occasionally appear in these advertisements, official parties are unlikely to endorse them in this manner. The endorsement is more likely the work of scammers exploiting affiliate programs to gain illegitimate commissions.
Adware often relies on specific conditions to deliver intrusive ad campaigns, such as compatibility with certain browsers/systems, user geolocation, or visits to particular websites. However, even if DefaultProgram doesn't display ads, its presence on a system poses a threat to device and user safety.
While AdLoad applications commonly feature browser-hijacking functionalities, we did not observe these capabilities during our testing of DefaultProgram.
This adware-type application may possess data-tracking capabilities, a standard feature for advertising-supported software. The collected information may include visited URLs, viewed webpages, search queries, internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, and financial data. This gathered data can be shared with or sold to third parties.
How Can Adware Enter Your Mac?
Adware can enter your Mac through various methods, often employing deceptive or intrusive tactics. Here are common ways adware may find its way onto your Mac:
Bundled Software Installers:
Adware is sometimes bundled with seemingly legitimate software installers. Users may inadvertently install adware when installing other applications, especially when downloading software from untrustworthy sources.
Fake Software Updates:
Malicious websites or pop-ups may display fake software update notifications, prompting users to download and install updates. These fake updates can contain adware.
Infected Email Attachments:
Adware may be distributed through infected email attachments. Users who download and open attachments from unknown or suspicious emails risk introducing adware onto their Macs.
Malicious Websites:
Visiting malicious or compromised websites can expose your Mac to adware. These sites may use scripts or vulnerabilities to initiate unwanted downloads or installations.
Clicking on Suspicious Ads:
Clicking on suspicious advertisements, especially those that claim to offer free software or system optimizations, can lead to the unintentional download and installation of adware.
Freeware and Shareware Downloads:
Downloading free software or shareware from untrustworthy sources can be a common source of adware. Some free applications may include adware as a way to generate revenue.
