{
  "family": "paper",
  "sample_count": 1,
  "category": "ransomware",
  "description": "<h3>Executive Summary</h3>\nThe \"Paper\" malware family is typically categorized as adware, a Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP), or a browser hijacker. It is engineered to aggressively monetize an infected user's web traffic by injecting unauthorized advertisements, modifying search engine results, and tracking browsing habits without transparent consent.\n\n<h3>Infection Vector and Operational Tactics</h3>\nPaper predominantly relies on software bundling for distribution. Users inadvertently install the adware when downloading \"free\" utilities—such as PDF converters, media players, or file extractors—from deceptive third-party software repositories. The adware components are hidden within \"Express\" or \"Recommended\" installation paths.\n\nUpon installation, Paper embeds itself deeply within the operating system and installed web browsers (Chrome, Edge, Firefox) via malicious extensions and modified proxy settings. Its primary behaviors include:\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Ad Injection:</strong> Overlaying intrusive banner ads, pop-ups, and in-text hyperlinks on legitimate websites, severely degrading the user experience.</li>\n<li><strong>Search Hijacking:</strong> Forcing the default search engine and homepage to redirect to an affiliate-controlled search portal, ensuring the adware operators receive a commission for every query.</li>\n<li><strong>Data Harvesting:</strong> Continuously tracking the user's browsing history, search terms, and location data to build profiles for targeted advertising or to sell to third-party data brokers.</li>\n</ul>\n\n<h3>Security and Privacy Risks</h3>\nWhile Paper does not typically exhibit destructive capabilities like ransomware, it poses a significant risk to user privacy and system stability. The injected advertisements are frequently served by low-reputation ad networks, increasing the likelihood of \"malvertising\" attacks that can lead to severe secondary infections.\n\n<h3>Mitigation and Removal</h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Browser Remediation:</strong> Remove any unknown or suspicious browser extensions. Perform a complete reset of the affected web browsers to clear modified search and homepage settings.</li>\n<li><strong>Endpoint Scanning:</strong> Utilize a reputable anti-malware or EDR solution to scan for and remove the underlying executables and registry modifications associated with the Paper family.</li>\n<li><strong>Software Policies:</strong> Enforce strict application control policies (e.g., AppLocker) to prevent users from executing unapproved software installers that frequently bundle adware.</li>\n</ul>",
  "cta": "Published by the SystemHelpdesk team.",
  "aliases": [
    "Adware.Paper",
    "PUP.Paper",
    "BrowserModifier.Paper"
  ],
  "enrichment_level": "insufficient_information",
  "faq": [],
  "faq_count": 0,
  "mitre_attack": [
    "T1566.002",
    "T1176",
    "T1112"
  ],
  "cisa_advisory": null,
  "last_updated": "2026-07-01T16:06:52Z",
  "type": "Adware",
  "target_industries": [
    "Global / Opportunistic"
  ],
  "motivation": "Opportunistic",
  "threat_actors": [
    "Unknown / Cybercriminal"
  ],
  "target_geographies": [
    "Global"
  ]
}