When analyzing a potential threat, we use 5 specific criteria: behavior, privacy, distribution, removal, and integration. The threat is then assigned points according to its characteristics when attempting to infiltrate your computer. The points are tallied and rounded to the nearest whole number to determine the threat’s TA index level. Click on the threat levels or criteria below to learn more about the analysis process.
High
Threats matching these criteria receive 1.8 points for each incident.
Behavior
- Performs automatic updating by deceptive means (Example: undisclosed trickler)
- Program masks as doing one thing, but does another
- Changes browsing results (Examples: hijacks browser, redirects browser, replaces text or graphics)
- Operates in stealth
- Alters your files for advertising
- Drops additional advertising applications/components
- Adds an auto-start feature that is not disclosed to the user, cannot be disabled, and is forcefully re-introduced if removed
- Mines third party application profiles and/or database information without your consent
Privacy
- Transmits usage information to remote systems without your consent and/or knowledge
- Tracks your surfing habits using personally identifiable information, without the user's consent and/or knowledge
- Transmits information not related to the software (personal information or information related to third party software)
without your consent and/or knowledge
Distribution
- Intentionally hides installation and/or clear evidence of intention
- Bundles with third party software; installation is not disclosed
- Attempts to hide or disguise license terms
Removal
- Installs into system folders in stealth, or by using random file names
- Does not uninstall with the host application
- Installs to all user accounts regardless of consent
Integration
- Runs even when the host application is closed and presents ads when you are not online
- Causes unrestricted pop-ups that require the system to be turned off or the internet connection to be severed to stop
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