NetworkImagine Mac Adware
During our analysis of new file submissions, our team came across an unauthorized application known as NetworkImagine. Through our investigation, we determined that this application operates as adware and belongs to the AdLoad malware family.
Adware, short for advertising-supported software, functions by delivering intrusive advertising campaigns. This software displays advertisements on visited websites or other interfaces, promoting online scams, unreliable or harmful software, and even malware. Clicking on these intrusive ads can trigger scripts that initiate downloads or installations without obtaining the user's consent.
It's important to note that any legitimate products or services advertised through these campaigns are unlikely to be endorsed by their original developers or official parties. Instead, scammers take advantage of affiliate programs associated with the advertised content to gain illegitimate commissions.
While advertising-supported software typically requires specific conditions to run intrusive ad campaigns, such as compatible browsers or system configurations, or visits to specific websites, the presence of NetworkImagine alone poses a risk to device and user safety, even if it does not display advertisements.
Although AdLoad adware often includes browser-hijacking features, we did not observe such traits in the NetworkImagine application during our inspection.
Furthermore, NetworkImagine incorporates data-tracking functionalities. It collects various types of information, including browsing and search engine histories, internet cookies, account login credentials (such as usernames and passwords), personally identifiable details, and credit card numbers. The collected data can be shared with or sold to third parties, potentially including cybercriminals.
How Can Adware Impact Your Online Privacy and Safety?
Adware can have significant implications for your online privacy and safety. Here are the ways in which adware can impact you:
- Intrusive Advertising: Adware displays intrusive and unwanted advertisements on your web browser, often disrupting your online experience. These ads can appear as pop-ups, banners, or overlays, making it challenging to navigate websites and hindering your productivity.
- Malicious Ads: Adware advertisements may promote online scams, fake software updates, or unreliable products/services. Clicking on these ads can lead you to malicious websites that may attempt to steal your personal information, infect your device with malware, or trick you into making fraudulent transactions.
- Browser and System Modifications: Some adware has browser-hijacking capabilities, altering your browser's settings without your consent. It may change your default search engine, homepage, or install unwanted browser extensions. These modifications can negatively impact your browsing experience, expose you to additional risks, and make it challenging to revert back to your preferred settings.
- Data Collection: Adware often tracks your online activities, such as websites visited, search queries, and click behavior. This information is then used to create targeted advertisements or sold to third parties for marketing purposes. Your personal and sensitive data, including login credentials and financial information, may also be collected, leading to potential identity theft or unauthorized access to your accounts.
- System Performance Issues: Adware can consume system resources, leading to slower device performance, increased loading times, and decreased overall productivity. The constant display of advertisements and background processes can cause your device to become sluggish and less responsive.
- Privacy Breaches: With adware's data collection capabilities, your privacy is at risk. Your online habits, preferences, and potentially sensitive information are being monitored and shared without your knowledge or consent. This invasion of privacy can have long-term consequences and expose you to targeted advertising, spam emails, or further privacy breaches.
