GrowSupport is an AdLoad Family Member Adware
During our routine assessment of new file samples, our research team came across the GrowSupport application. After conducting an investigation into this deceptive application, we concluded that it falls under the category of adware and is associated with the AdLoad malware family. GrowSupport functions by executing intrusive advertising campaigns and may possess additional detrimental capabilities.
Adware, which stands for advertising-supported software, is devised to inundate users with undesired and misleading advertisements. This type of third-party visual content, encompassing pop-ups, banners, overlays, coupons, and more, is exhibited on visited websites or other interfaces.
The primary purpose of these intrusive ads is to promote online scams, unreliable or hazardous software, and even malware. Certain ads can be triggered, often through clicking, to initiate concealed downloads or installations.
It's important to note that although legitimate products and services might be encountered through advertisements delivered by adware, they are unlikely to be endorsed in this manner by their legitimate developers or other official entities. It's highly probable that such endorsements are orchestrated by scammers who exploit affiliate programs to illicitly gain commissions.
Furthermore, advertising-supported software might necessitate specific conditions for executing intrusive ad campaigns, such as compatible browser or system specifications or visits to particular websites. However, regardless of whether GrowSupport displays advertisements, its mere presence on a system poses risks to both device and user safety.
Although AdLoad applications often possess browser-hijacking capabilities, we did not observe any such functionalities during our testing of GrowSupport.
This rogue application is likely to gather private information. Adware typically targets various types of data, including visited URLs, viewed webpages, search queries, internet cookies, login credentials, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and more. The data collected can subsequently be shared with or sold to third parties.
How Can Adware Impact Your Online Safety and Privacy?
Adware can have a significant impact on your online safety and privacy by introducing various risks and vulnerabilities. Here's how adware can compromise your security and privacy:
Intrusive Advertisements: Adware inundates your browsing experience with intrusive and often misleading advertisements. Clicking on these ads can lead you to malicious websites, increasing the risk of malware infections or phishing attacks.
Malware Distribution: Some adware can serve as a gateway for more dangerous forms of malware. Clicking on certain ads might trigger the download and installation of malware onto your device.
Unwanted Software: Adware may bundle with other unwanted software or browser extensions without your consent. This can clutter your system, slow down performance, and expose you to further security risks.
Browser Hijacking: Certain adware can modify your browser settings, such as your homepage, default search engine, or new tab page. This can lead to unwanted redirects and diminish your control over your browsing experience.
Personal Data Collection: Adware often tracks your online behavior, including websites visited and search queries. This data can be used to create targeted ads or, in some cases, be shared with third parties for advertising purposes.
Sensitive Information Exposure: In some cases, adware might track sensitive information like login credentials, financial details, or personal identifiers. This data can be exploited for identity theft or financial fraud.
Privacy Invasion: Adware's data collection practices invade your privacy by monitoring your online activities without your consent. Your personal habits and interests can be tracked and potentially used against you.
Unauthorized Notifications: Adware can enable push notifications that spam your device with unwanted messages, including ads, scams, and phishing attempts.
