OriginalGrowthSystem – A Potentially Unwanted Program Targeting Mac Users
OriginalGrowthSystem is a Potentially Unwanted Program (or PUP) that affects the macOS. Aside from being a PUP, this program also exhibits adware and browser hijacker qualities. These ads are likely to lead users to questionable sites, exposing them to unreliable content. In addition to links to questionable websites that appear as ads generated by OriginalGrowthSystem, you may experience redirects to a modified version of Yahoo Search as well. It is common for low-quality sites to employ known search engines like Yahoo or Bing, but the popular search engines themselves are in no way responsible for the PUPs or adware.
The term “OriginalGrowthSystem virus” may be found on the Web because users may commonly use the word “virus” to describe a computer threat. Needless to say, this PUP is not a virus. Reputable anti-malware programs may also categorize it as a browser hijacker, as it may hijack such popular web browsers as Safari, Chrome, Firefox, Edge and Opera. Some of the symptoms associated with OriginalGrowthSystem are altered browser preferences, difficulties restoring browser settings, and monitoring browsing habits that can eventually result in targeted online ads on the affected browser.
OriginalGrowthSystem is generally distributed via freeware installations, bundled packages, or shady websites. It means that users tend to install such programs willingly, although they are often unaware of the potential threats that come with them. At the same time, it is also possible to avoid OriginalGrowthSystem and other similar apps. Computer users should always pay attention when installing new software because a software installer often includes optional software. You can choose to opt for the custom installation option and deselect any optional software that is not familiar, or you’re not interested in installing.
Like most adware, the ads delivered by OriginalGrowthSystem are intended for generating revenue. Like other PUPs, OriginalGrowthSystem may use tracking cookies to monitor your online behavior and collect data. OriginalGrowthSystem may attempt to collect browsing history, your browser and Operating System type, IP address, geographic location, and the domain name of your current Internet service provider, among other browser data.
The program operators may misuse collected data for future advertising campaigns or sell your data to third parties. With that data, the user can become a target of custom commercial advertising. Although that is not a severe cybersecurity threat, it could still, in the long run, lead the user to unreliable web pages.
As mentioned, OriginalGrowthSystem can affect all popular browsers, including Safari, Chrome, Firefox, and Opera, by injecting them with suspicious ads. Additionally, an unwanted extension may be added to target browsers to modify preferences, including the preferred homepage, new tab page, and default search engine.
Browser hijackers like the Yahoo Redirect Virus are often distributed via PUPs like OriginalGrowthSystem, which means that having this PUP on your system could lead to computer issues. OriginalGrowthSystem is a PUP that shouldn’t be underestimated, and it’s advised to remove this PUP with the help of a reputable anti-malware solution.
To learn about more dangerous potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) and the best ways to protect your system from them, visit our dedicated PUP section.
