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OfferCore

Posted: December 23, 2023
from Cybersecurity Glossary
Aliases:
OfferCore Cheat Engine, OfferCore uTorrent
Category:
Adware
Platform:
Windows
Variants:
PUP.Optional.OfferCore, Win32/OfferCore, PUADIManager:Win32/OfferCore, Riskware/OfferCore, Win32/OfferCore.C, PUA:Win32/OfferCore
Risk Level:
Middle

OfferCore falls under the classification of a potentially unwanted program (PUP), specifically adware. It seizes control of your browser, disrupting your settings and overall browsing experience. Capable of affecting all major browsers, OfferCore typically infiltrates Windows devices through bundled installations with other software, often going unnoticed by users.

Possible symptoms

  • Excessive display of intrusive and annoying ads during browsing sessions.
  • Unauthorized changes to browser settings, such as homepage and default search engine.
  • Sluggish browser performance and increased system resource usage.
  • Unexpected redirections to potentially harmful websites.
  • Presence of unfamiliar browser extensions or plugins.
  • Interference with the normal functioning of security software.
  • Gathering and transmitting user data without consent.

Sources of the infection

  • Bundled with other software installations, especially freeware or shareware.
  • Malicious websites and compromised online advertisements.
  • Downloading files or software from untrusted sources.
  • Clicking on deceptive or misleading pop-up ads.
  • Exploiting vulnerabilities in outdated software or operating systems.
  • Malicious email attachments and phishing campaigns.
  • Drive-by downloads from compromised websites.

Overview

OfferCore, also known as 'No associated aliases are known,' is classified as a Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP) and falls within the category of adware. This malicious software interferes with the normal functioning of your browser, taking control and inundating your browsing experience with intrusive and bothersome ads.

The overarching impact of OfferCore extends to disrupting browser settings, affecting the performance of major browsers on Windows devices. It commonly infiltrates systems through bundled installations with other software, often escaping user notice.

Recognizable by various aliases such as PUP.Optional.OfferCore and Win32/OfferCore, this adware exhibits symptoms including excessive display of intrusive ads, unauthorized changes to browser settings, sluggish browser performance, unexpected redirections, the presence of unfamiliar extensions, and interference with security software.

OfferCore spreads through bundled software installations, malicious websites, compromised online ads, downloading from untrusted sources, deceptive pop-up ads, exploiting software vulnerabilities, and phishing campaigns.

If you suspect OfferCore infection, take immediate action. Run a full system scan using Gridinsoft Anti-Malware, remove detected instances, reset browser settings, and uninstall suspicious software.

Preventing OfferCore infections involves regular OS and software updates, using updated anti-malware solutions, avoiding untrusted software sources, being cautious during installations, and enabling automatic browser updates with the use of ad-blocking browser extensions.

🤔 What to do?

If you suspect your system is infected with OfferCore, take the following steps:

  1. Run a full system scan using a Gridinsoft Anti-Malware.
  2. Remove any detected instances of OfferCore and its variants.
  3. Reset your web browsers to default settings to eliminate any browser hijacking.
  4. Check for and uninstall any recently installed suspicious software or applications.

🛡️ Prevention

To prevent OfferCore infections, follow these technical steps:

  1. Regularly update your operating system and all installed software.
  2. Use a Gridinsoft Anti-Malware and keep it up-to-date.
  3. Avoid downloading software from untrusted sources; always opt for official websites or authorized repositories.
  4. Be cautious during software installations and uncheck any bundled offers or additional software that you don't need.
  5. Enable automatic browser updates and use browser extensions that block malicious ads and scripts.

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