ManagerMaster Mac Adware
Our research team came across the ManagerMaster application during a review of new file samples. Upon our analysis, we identified it as adware associated with the AdLoad malware family. ManagerMaster operates by conducting aggressive advertising campaigns.
Adware, short for advertising-supported software, is created to facilitate the display of third-party visual content (such as pop-ups, banners, overlays, etc.) on visited webpages and other interfaces.
These advertisements primarily promote online scams, dubious or hazardous software, and in some cases, even malware. Some of these ads, when clicked, can trigger scripts to carry out discreet downloads or installations.
It's important to note that any legitimate products or services advertised through these ads are unlikely to be endorsed by their developers or official parties. More likely, these promotions are orchestrated by scammers who exploit affiliate programs to earn illicit commissions.
In certain circumstances, advertising-supported software may refrain from running intrusive ad campaigns, such as when specific conditions are unfavorable (e.g., incompatible browser/system or not visiting particular websites). Nevertheless, even if ManagerMaster does not display ads, its presence on a system poses risks to the device and user security.
While AdLoad applications often possess browser hijacking capabilities, our examination of ManagerMaster did not reveal similar functions.
How Can the Presence of Adware Alter Your Browsing?
The presence of adware can significantly alter your browsing experience in several ways, often to the detriment of your online activities. Here are some ways in which adware can affect your browsing:
Excessive Advertisements:
Adware floods your web browser with an excessive number of advertisements. These ads can take the form of pop-ups, banners, in-text ads, video ads, and more. They disrupt your browsing by covering content, making pages load slower, and making it difficult to find the information you need.
Redirects:
Adware may redirect your web browser to websites that you did not intend to visit. These redirected pages can be advertising landing pages, potentially harmful websites, or even phishing sites designed to steal your personal information.
Slower Browsing:
The constant loading of advertisements and scripts from adware can significantly slow down your web browsing experience. Pages may take longer to load, and your browser may become less responsive.
Privacy Concerns:
Adware often tracks your online activities and gathers information about your browsing habits. This data can be used to create targeted advertisements or, in more malicious cases, sold to third parties without your consent, raising serious privacy concerns.
Intrusive Content:
Adware can display intrusive and offensive content, such as adult material or misleading advertisements. This can be particularly problematic if you share your computer with family members, including children.
Browser Settings Changes:
Some adware may alter your browser's settings, including your homepage, default search engine, and browser extensions. These changes can be frustrating and may be challenging to revert.
