IndexerAdmin Adware
We came across the IndexerAdmin application while reviewing new file samples. Upon examination, we identified it as adware belonging to the AdLoad malware family.
Adware, short for advertising-supported software, facilitates the display of third-party graphical content such as pop-ups, banners, coupons, and overlays across various interfaces.
It's important to note that certain conditions may be required for this software to execute intrusive advertising campaigns, such as specific browser/system specifications or visits to particular websites. However, even if IndexerAdmin doesn't directly display advertisements, its presence on a system poses a threat to device integrity and user privacy.
Advertisements delivered by adware can promote online scams, untrustworthy or harmful software, and even malware. Clicking on these intrusive ads may trigger scripts that initiate stealthy downloads or installations. It's worth noting that any seemingly legitimate content encountered through these ads is likely promoted by scammers aiming to earn illicit commissions through abuse of affiliate programs.
Moreover, AdLoad applications often possess browser-hijacking capabilities, although we did not observe such functionalities during our testing of IndexerAdmin.
Furthermore, adware typically includes data-tracking features, allowing IndexerAdmin to collect browsing and search engine histories, internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable information, financial data, or other sensitive details. This information can then be monetized through sale to third parties.
What is the AdLoad Family of Adware Clone Apps?
The AdLoad family of adware clone apps refers to a group of adware variants that share similarities in their behavior, codebase, and distribution methods. AdLoad is a type of adware that displays intrusive advertisements to users, typically in the form of pop-ups, banners, coupons, and overlays, across various interfaces.
These adware clone apps are often created by cybercriminals who modify existing adware code or develop new variants based on the same underlying framework. While they may have different names and slightly different functionalities, they all belong to the broader AdLoad family.
Members of the AdLoad family typically exhibit the following characteristics:
Intrusive Advertising: AdLoad adware clones display intrusive advertisements that can disrupt users' browsing experience and compromise their privacy.
Browser Hijacking: Some variants of AdLoad adware may have browser-hijacking capabilities, which allow them to modify browser settings, redirect users to unwanted websites, or inject additional ads into web pages.
Data Tracking: AdLoad adware often includes data-tracking features that monitor users' online activities, including browsing habits, search queries, and website visits. This data may be used for targeted advertising or sold to third parties for profit.
Distribution: AdLoad adware clones are typically distributed through deceptive tactics such as software bundling, fake software updates, or malicious websites. They may also be distributed through spam emails or malicious advertisements.
Persistence: Once installed on a system, AdLoad adware clones may establish persistence mechanisms to ensure that they remain active and continue displaying advertisements even after a system reboot or software update.
Overall, the AdLoad family of adware clone apps poses a threat to users' online security and privacy by bombarding them with unwanted advertisements and potentially collecting sensitive information without their consent. Users are advised to use reputable antivirus software and exercise caution when downloading software or clicking on ads to protect themselves from adware infections.
