Gator adware tops 2006 spyware chart
PandaLabs releases spyware top 10
Gator, a type of adware that offers free use of an application if users agree to view a series of pop-up messages tops the list of spyware most frequently detected by PandaLabs in 2006.
Some versions of this spyware replace banners on web pages visited with those created by the malicious code itself.
Second and third place in the top 10 are occupied by Wupd and Ncase respectively. Both offer free use of an application in exchange for displaying advertising messages.
They also monitor users’ Internet movements and gather data about habits and preferences. This information is then used to personalize the advertising displayed. Additionally, Ncase changes the Internet Explorer home page, as well as the default search options.
The adware CWS came in fourth place. This can be installed without a user's consent or without them being fully aware of the functionality of the tool.
Emediacodec, in fifth place, has similar characteristics. It uses a series of techniques in order to prevent it being detected by antivirus companies. It can even terminate its own execution if it detects that it is being executed in a virtual machine environment, such as VMWare.
In sixth place in the table is Lop, a type of adware with many variants. In most cases, this malicious code installs a toolbar with search features in Internet Explorer. It also displays numerous advertising pop-ups.
Winantivirus, in seventh place, is categorized as a PUP, (Potentially Unwanted Program). It is downloaded onto computers by other malicious code, such as, Downloader.LHW and exploits application vulnerabilities in order to spread. Winantivirus is also capable of damaging users’ systems.
CWS.Searchpmeup is in eighth place in the list. This malicious program changes the Internet Explorer home page and the default search options. The web page that it sets as the home page uses several exploits to download malware onto computers.
Next in the ranking is Winfixer2005, a PUP that searches the computer for supposed ‘errors’ and then demands that users buy the program in order to repair them.
Finally, in tenth place comes New.net, a spy program that adds a toolbar to Internet Explorer and collects information about the user, including Internet pages visited, etc.
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Further Reading:
UK has third highest spyware levels