StandartSkill Adware: Understanding the Threat and Removal Guide

In a meticulous examination, StandartSkill has been identified as adware, posing potential risks to users. This adware inundates users with bothersome advertisements and may also be designed to collect diverse data, urging users to exercise caution to mitigate potential adverse consequences.

StandartSkill Adware Overview

StandartSkill operates as adware, bombarding users with a variety of intrusive advertisements that can significantly impact their online experience. These ads may manifest as aggressive pop-ups, banners, and in-text advertisements, appearing on websites that typically do not feature ads. The content of these ads often promotes questionable products, fake software updates, or enticing offers that redirect users to potentially harmful websites.

Risks Associated with StandartSkill

1. Phishing Attempts: Pages opened via ads from StandartSkill may attempt to deceive users into providing sensitive information such as login credentials, credit card details, or personal data under the guise of legitimate websites. This poses a significant risk of identity theft, financial losses, or unauthorized access to online accounts.
2. Malicious Software: Ads from StandartSkill may lead users to websites hosting malicious software or promoting various scams, including investment or technical support scams. Clicking on these ads can initiate unintended installations of potentially malicious applications, exposing users to further risks.
3. Privacy Concerns: StandartSkill may focus on collecting information related to user behavior and preferences. This can include browsing history, search queries, and the types of websites visited. Adware, at times, captures highly sensitive details such as passwords or financial information, raising significant privacy concerns.

Threat Detection Names

• Avast: MacOS:AdAgent-L [Adw]
• Combo Cleaner: Gen:Variant.Adware.MAC.Adload.29
• ESET-NOD32: A Variant Of OSX/Adware.Synataeb.C
• Kaspersky: Not-a-virus:HEUR:AdWare.OSX.Adload.h
• [Full List on VirusTotal](link to VirusTotal)

StandartSkill Adware Removal Guide

Step 1: Uninstall Suspicious Applications

1. Go to “Applications” in Finder.
2. Identify and uninstall any suspicious applications, especially those recently installed or unfamiliar.
3. Right-click and choose “Move to Trash.”

Step 2: Remove StandartSkill from Web Browsers

Safari:

1. Open Safari.
2. Go to “Safari” > “Preferences.”
3. Click on the “Extensions” tab.
4. Find and uninstall any StandartSkill-related extensions.

Google Chrome:

1. Open Chrome.
2. Type “chrome://extensions/” in the address bar.
3. Locate and delete StandartSkill-related extensions.

Mozilla Firefox:

1. Open Firefox.
2. Type “about:addons” in the address bar.
3. Remove StandartSkill related extensions.

Step 3: Clear Browser Data

1. In each browser, navigate to settings and find the option to clear browsing data.
2. Select “Cookies,” “Cached Images,” and other site data.
3. Click “Clear” or “Delete.”

Step 4: Check System Preferences

1. Open “System Preferences” on your Mac.
2. Navigate to “Profiles” and remove any suspicious profiles.

Step 5: Run a Security Software Scan

Utilize a reputable antivirus or anti-malware tool to perform a full system scan and remove any remaining traces of StandartSkill.

Best Practices for Prevention

1. Download from Official Sources: Only download software from official and trusted websites.
2. Regular Software Updates: Keep your operating system and applications up-to-date.
3. Security Software: Install and update reliable antivirus or anti-malware software.
4. Exercise Caution Online: Avoid clicking on suspicious links or ads.
5. Stay Informed: Stay updated on the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices.

By following these steps, users can effectively remove StandartSkill adware and reduce the risk of encountering similar threats in the future.