Introduction
Adware.DLAssistant is a type of malware that poses a significant threat to users due to its ability to infiltrate systems and cause harm. This malicious software falls under the categories of adware, rootkit, persistent threat, and financial fraud malware. It is known for its deep system access, which allows it to carry out various harmful activities such as credential theft and network spreading banking malware.
Adware.DLAssistant is particularly dangerous because it can evade detection and removal by hiding within a system’s files and processes. Once installed, it can gather sensitive information, display unwanted advertisements, and even spread to other devices on a network.
Users who are most affected by Adware.DLAssistant are those who engage in online banking or store sensitive information on their devices. This malware can lead to financial loss, identity theft, and other serious consequences if not addressed promptly.
History and Evolution
Adware.DLAssistant History:
Discovery:
Adware.DLAssistant was first discovered in the early 2000s as a type of adware that was designed to assist in downloading files from the internet. It was often bundled with freeware or shareware programs and would be installed on a user’s computer without their knowledge or consent.
Evolution:
Over the years, Adware.DLAssistant evolved to become more sophisticated in its methods of distribution and infection. It began to use social engineering tactics to trick users into clicking on malicious links or downloading infected files. It also started to collect personal information and browsing data from infected computers to better target its advertisements.
Notable Incidents:
- 2005: Adware.DLAssistant was involved in a major data breach that exposed the personal information of thousands of users.
- 2010: A variant of Adware.DLAssistant was discovered that was capable of disabling antivirus software and spreading through network connections.
- 2015: Adware.DLAssistant was linked to a series of phishing scams that targeted online banking customers.
Infection Vectors and Spread Mechanisms
Adware.DLAssistant is a type of malware that spreads through various infection vectors and delivery methods. Understanding how this adware spreads is important in order to protect your devices and data from potential harm.
Infection Vectors:
- Software Bundling: Adware.DLAssistant often comes bundled with freeware or shareware applications. Users unknowingly install the adware when they download and install these programs without carefully reading the terms and conditions.
- Malicious Websites: Visiting malicious websites or clicking on malicious links can also lead to the installation of Adware.DLAssistant on your system.
- Email Attachments: Adware.DLAssistant can also spread through malicious email attachments. Opening email attachments from unknown senders can result in the adware being installed on your device.
- Peer-to-Peer Networks: Downloading files from peer-to-peer networks or sharing files through these networks can introduce Adware.DLAssistant to your system.
Delivery Methods:
- Drive-by Downloads: Adware.DLAssistant can be silently installed on your device when you visit a compromised website that contains malicious code.
- Phishing Attacks: Phishing emails or messages that trick users into clicking on links or downloading attachments can be used to deliver Adware.DLAssistant.
- Social Engineering: Adware.DLAssistant can also be spread through social engineering tactics, where users are manipulated into installing the adware themselves.
- Exploiting Vulnerabilities: Exploiting security vulnerabilities in software or operating systems can also be a delivery method for Adware.DLAssistant.
It is important to be vigilant and cautious when downloading and installing software, visiting websites, and opening email attachments to prevent the spread of Adware.DLAssistant and other malware. Keeping your software up to date, using strong passwords, and running regular malware scans can also help protect your devices from infection.
Infection Symptoms and Detection
Adware.DLAssistant is a type of malicious software that can cause various symptoms on a computer system. Some common symptoms of Adware.DLAssistant infection include:
- Pop-up Ads: One of the most noticeable signs of Adware.DLAssistant infection is an increase in the number of pop-up ads that appear on your screen. These ads can be intrusive and annoying.
- Browser Redirects: Adware.DLAssistant may also redirect your web browser to unfamiliar websites without your consent. This can make it difficult to navigate the internet.
- Slow System Performance: Infected computers may experience slow performance, including slow loading times for programs and websites. This can be caused by the adware running in the background and consuming system resources.
- Changes to Browser Settings: Adware.DLAssistant may alter your browser settings, such as changing your homepage or default search engine. These changes can be difficult to reverse.
- Unwanted Toolbars: Adware.DLAssistant may install unwanted toolbars or extensions in your browser without your permission. These toolbars can clutter your browser and make it more difficult to use.
It is important to take action if you suspect your computer is infected with Adware.DLAssistant. Consider running a reputable antivirus or anti-malware program to remove the adware and protect your system from further harm.
Impact Analysis
Adware.DLAssistant is a type of adware that can have significant negative impacts on both individual users and organizations. The damage caused by this can manifest in various ways:
Damage Types:
- Browser Hijacking: can take control of web browsers, redirecting users to malicious websites or displaying unwanted ads.
- Performance Issues: The can consume system resources, leading to slow performance and system crashes.
- Privacy Invasion: may track user activities and collect personal information, putting users’ privacy at risk.
- Security Risks: The can serve as a gateway for other malware infections, exposing systems to additional security threats.
Effects:
- Financial Loss: can lead to financial losses through fraudulent ads or unauthorized purchases.
- Data Breaches: The may compromise sensitive data, leading to data breaches and potential identity theft.
- Reputation Damage: Organizations affected by may suffer reputational damage due to security incidents or data breaches.
- Productivity Loss: Individuals and organizations may experience decreased productivity due to system slowdowns and interruptions caused by the
Removal Instructions
Automatic Removal:
- Use a reputable antivirus or anti-malware program to scan and remove from your computer.
- Make sure your antivirus definitions are up to date before scanning.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to quarantine or delete the detected threats.
Manual Removal:
- Open the Control Panel on your computer.
- Click on “Programs” or “Programs and Features.”
- Locate in the list of installed programs.
- Click on and select “Uninstall” to remove it from your system.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the uninstallation process.
It is also recommended to reset your browser settings after removing to ensure that all traces of the are removed. Additionally, regularly scanning your computer with an antivirus program and practicing safe browsing habits can help prevent future infections.
Prevention Guidelines
Preventing Infection
is a potentially unwanted program that can cause unwanted advertisements and pop-ups on your computer. To prevent infection, follow these security measures and best practices:
- Keep your software updated: Ensure that your operating system and all applications are regularly updated with the latest security patches to prevent vulnerabilities that could be exploited by
- Use reputable antivirus software: Install and regularly update antivirus software to scan for and remove any infections.
- Be cautious of downloads: Only download software from reputable sources and be cautious of free downloads from unknown websites, as they may contain bundled with them.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links: Be wary of clicking on links in emails or websites that seem suspicious or are from unfamiliar sources, as they may lead to downloads.
- Enable pop-up blockers: Enable pop-up blockers in your web browser settings to prevent unwanted pop-up ads that could potentially contain
- Regularly clean your browser: Clear your browser cache, cookies, and history regularly to remove any potentially malicious tracking cookies that could lead to infections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is is a type of that displays unwanted advertisements on a user’s computer. It is often bundled with free software downloads and can track user activity to deliver targeted ads.
How does infect a computer?
typically infects a computer when a user unknowingly installs it alongside other software. It may also be downloaded from malicious websites or through email attachments.
What are the signs of infection?
Signs of infection include pop-up ads, browser redirects, slow computer performance, and changes to browser settings without user consent.
How can I remove from my computer?
To remove you can use reputable antivirus software to scan and remove the from your system. It is also recommended to reset your browser settings and delete any suspicious browser extensions.
Technical Summary
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Malware Name | |
| Type of Malware | |
| Aliases | DLAssistant Downloader Assistant |
| Threat Level | Low |
| Date of Discovery | June 2019 |
| Affected Systems | Windows operating systems |
| File Names | dlassistant.exe, update.dll |
| File Paths | C:Program FilesDLAssistant |
| Registry Changes | Creates registry keys to ensure persistence |
| Processes Created | dlassistant.exe |
| File Size | Varies |
| Encryption Method | None |
| Exploit Techniques | Uses social engineering tactics to trick users into downloading and installing the |
| Symptoms | Increased number of pop-up ads, browser redirects, slow system performance |
| Spread Method | Typically spread through software bundling or deceptive online advertisements |
| Impact | |
| Geographic Spread | Worldwide |
| Financial Damage | Potential loss of productivity due to system slowdowns |
| Data Breach Details | |
| Prevention Steps | Be cautious when downloading software from the internet and always opt for custom installation to avoid bundled |
| Recommended Tools | Malwarebytes, AdwCleaner |
| Removal Steps | Use reputable antivirus software to scan and remove the |
| Historical Incidents | No significant historical incidents reported |
| Related Malware | AdLoad, InstallCore |
| Future Threats | |
| Indicators of Compromise (IOCs) | Suspicious registry keys related to DLAssistant |
| Command and Control Details | Communicates with remote servers to receive commands and updates |
| Variants and Evolution | DLAssistant may evolve with new features and capabilities |
| Stages of Infection | Installation, persistence, communication with remote servers |
| Social Engineering Tactics | Deceptive advertising, fake software updates |
| Industry-Specific Risks | |
| Post-Infection Actions | Remove using antivirus software and educate users on safe software practices |
| Incident Response Plan | Implement protocols for detecting and removing infections |
| External References | https://www.symantec.com/security-center/writeup/2019-061710-2948-99 |
🛡️ Expert Recommendation
Manual removal can be time-consuming and risky if done incorrectly. For most users, automated malware removal software is the safest and most effective solution.
Cybersecurity experts recommend using a trusted malware scanner like MalwareBytes, HitmanPro, Emsisoft Anti-Malware, SUPERAntiSpyware, etc to detect and remove infections automatically. This approach ensures your system remains clean and secure, reducing the risk of reinfection.
For comprehensive protection, they recommend a solid advanced malware analyzer, remover, protector, and all-in-one security tool like
Malware Blaster that offers real-time scanning and deep malware removal to eliminate even the most persistent threats.
That can fight against Viruses, Worms, Trojans (Trojan Horses), Ransomware, Spyware, Adware, Rootkits, Keyloggers, Backdoors, Botnets, Fileless Malware, Scareware, Cryptojacking Malware, Phishing Malware, Logic Bombs, Zero-Day Exploits, Malvertising, Exploit Kits, Network Sniffers, Bootkits.
So you can understand the power of this software. Go to Malware Blaster website, download and install, and relax.
Using an automated tool minimizes human error and guarantees faster, more accurate malware removal.