FunctionLog Adware
During our investigation of new file samples, our researchers discovered FunctionLog, classified as advertising-supported software belonging to the AdLoad malware family. FunctionLog is specifically engineered to conduct intrusive advertising campaigns.
Adware generates revenue for its developers through advertisements, typically by displaying third-party graphical content such as pop-ups, coupons, and overlays across various interfaces.
While adware can degrade browsing quality and system performance, the advertisements it presents often promote untrustworthy, harmful, or even malicious content. Certain ads may activate scripts upon being clicked, leading to stealthy downloads or installations.
It is worth noting that any genuine products or services advertised through these channels are likely promoted by scammers exploiting affiliate programs to gain illegitimate commissions.
Depending on factors such as browser/system specifications, user geolocation, or visited websites, advertising-supported software may refrain from running intrusive advertising campaigns. However, even if FunctionLog does not deliver advertisements, the application still poses risks to device integrity and user privacy.
Although previous AdLoad applications have demonstrated browser-hijacking capabilities, our analysis did not identify these traits in FunctionLog.
This adware-type application may incorporate data-tracking functionalities, as commonly found in adware. Targeted information may encompass visited URLs, viewed webpages, search queries, browser cookies, usernames, passwords, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and more. This sensitive data can be monetized through sale to third parties.
How is Adware Like FunctionLog Proliferated Online?
Adware like FunctionLog is typically proliferated online through various methods, including:
Bundled Software: Adware often comes bundled with legitimate software downloads, especially freeware or shareware programs. Users may unknowingly install adware alongside the desired software if they do not carefully read through the installation process and opt out of additional offers.
Fake Software Updates: Cybercriminals may distribute adware through fake software update notifications or deceptive pop-up ads claiming to offer updates for popular software programs. Unsuspecting users may click on these notifications and inadvertently install adware on their systems.
Malicious Websites: Adware can be distributed through malicious websites that host fake download links or deceptive advertisements. Users may be tricked into clicking on these links or ads, leading to the inadvertent installation of adware.
Phishing Emails: Adware may be distributed via phishing emails containing malicious attachments or links. These emails may masquerade as legitimate communications from trusted sources, enticing users to download and install malicious software, including adware.
Social Engineering Tactics: Cybercriminals may employ social engineering tactics, such as fake surveys, quizzes, or online contests, to trick users into downloading and installing adware. These tactics often promise enticing rewards or incentives to encourage users to click on links or download files containing adware.
Drive-by Downloads: Adware can be distributed through drive-by downloads, where malware is automatically downloaded and installed onto a user's system without their consent or knowledge. This often occurs when users visit compromised or malicious websites that exploit vulnerabilities in their web browsers or operating systems.
File-sharing Networks: Adware may be distributed through file-sharing networks, peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, or torrent sites. Users who download files from these networks may inadvertently download and install adware along with the desired content.
