README.md

---
title: UnwantedAdsPinpointingTheSource
emoji: 🏢
colorFrom: yellow
colorTo: blue
sdk: static
pinned: false
license: mit
short_description: 'The Unwanted Ad in Google Messages: Pinpointing the Source'
---

# 1. Ads Unwanted in SMS - Adware Defense 101 Sim
![image/png](https://cdn-uploads.huggingface.co/production/uploads/620630b603825909dcbeba35/0U6nwNbHTLklVRLrFux4-.png)

# 2. Adware defense app using Gemini Canvas:
![image/png](https://cdn-uploads.huggingface.co/production/uploads/620630b603825909dcbeba35/yGBagpEVdwgnOmh-io2hU.png)

# 3. Main Idea - Explain how it could happen, Describe that pain, Create painkiller with AI per Tony Fadell (of Nest and iPod Invention) product process of invention.

Unsolicited Ad Intrusion in Google Messages for Web: A Technical Analysis of AdFox and Injection Mechanisms
I. Executive Summary: Addressing Your Concerns Head-On
The appearance of an unexpected "AdFox / dealsbe.com" advertisement within the Google Messages for web interface on a personal computer is understandably concerning. However, this event is almost certainly not an indication of a virus or adware distributed by Google itself. The most probable cause is the presence of an unwanted browser extension or an adware program installed on the PC. This third-party software likely manipulated the Google Messages webpage content directly within the Chrome browser to display the unsolicited advertisement.

AdFox, the name featured in the advertisement, is a legitimate advertising technology platform. Its presence indicates the ad network or branding used by the advertiser ("dealsbe.com"), but it does not imply malicious intent from AdFox as a platform. The involvement of the Samsung Fold2 Android phone in this scenario is likely limited to the standard synchronization process inherent to Google Messages, where actions on the web client are reflected or routed through the phone. This synchronization activity may have coincidentally triggered the ad display by the malicious software already resident on the PC, rather than the phone being the source of the ad.

This report provides a detailed technical analysis of how such ad injections occur, clarifies the role of entities like AdFox, examines the motivations behind these activities, and offers actionable recommendations for remediation and prevention.

II. Understanding the Players: AdFox and the Advertiser ("dealsbe.com")
To comprehend the situation, it is essential to first understand the entities involved in the observed advertisement.

A. What is AdFox?
AdFox is an online advertising management service, primarily associated with Yandex, a multinational technology company. Its core function is to provide tools for website owners, mobile application developers, and video resource providers to manage ad impressions effectively. This includes serving direct sales banners, integrating with the Yandex Advertising Network and Yandex Mediation for monetization, collecting detailed statistics on ad performance, and analyzing the overall effectiveness of advertising campaigns. AdFox is designed for web platforms and supports various banner types, including preloader, fullscreen, and sticky banners.   

It is crucial to differentiate between AdFox as a legitimate platform and its potential indirect involvement in unwanted ad scenarios. AdFox itself is a tool used by publishers and advertisers for standard advertising operations. However, like any ad network or ad serving technology, its infrastructure can be utilized by various advertisers. If adware or a malicious browser extension is present on a user's system, that unwanted software could potentially fetch and display ads that are served through AdFox's network, or display ad creatives that incorporate "AdFox" branding. The appearance of the AdFox name in an injected ad does not inherently mean AdFox is the source of the malicious delivery method. Instead, the problem lies with the unauthorized software on the PC that chooses to display an ad (which might be served via AdFox or simply branded as such) in an intrusive manner.

This distinction is important because if AdFox were an inherently malicious entity, blocking its domains might seem like a solution. However, given its legitimate status , the underlying adware or malicious extension responsible for the injection could simply switch to sourcing ads from a different network if AdFox were blocked. Therefore, addressing the root cause—the unwanted software on the PC—is the primary objective for remediation. The online advertising ecosystem is a complex web of publishers, networks, exchanges, and technology providers. This complexity can, at times, be exploited by malicious actors to inject ads, making the precise origin of an ad difficult to trace without deep technical investigation of the injecting software itself.   

B. The Role of "dealsbe.com"
The entity "dealsbe.com" is identified from the screenshot as the advertiser whose message ("Exclusive Software Deals for Developers") was displayed. The advertisement promotes software deals, which, while potentially legitimate in content, becomes problematic due to its unsolicited and intrusive delivery method.

Available information on "dealsbe.com" from the provided research is limited and does not conclusively label the site itself as malicious. One source links "Home Run Deals" to "Be Prepared - Emergency Essentials," which appears unrelated to software deals for developers. Another discusses tool deals and daily deal emails, which is thematically closer but does not directly reference dealsbe.com as the source of those deals.   

The nature of "software deals" advertised through unsolicited injection methods warrants caution. Such ads can sometimes serve as gateways to Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) or software bundles that include additional adware. If a user were to click on such an injected ad, they might be directed to a download or offer that, if accepted, installs further unwanted software on their system. This creates a cycle of infection. The critical issue here is not necessarily the legitimacy of the deals offered by dealsbe.com, but the fact that its advertisement was injected into a web application without user consent.   

To further clarify AdFox's role, the following table distinguishes its intended purpose from its potential involvement in unwanted ad scenarios:

Table 1: AdFox - Legitimate Platform vs. Misuse Potential

Feature/Aspect	Legitimate Use by Advertisers/Publishers	How it Can Be Involved in Unwanted Ad Scenarios
Ad Serving	Displaying contracted ads on their own websites/apps.	Adware on a user's PC requests and displays ads sourced from various networks, potentially including those managed via AdFox-like platforms.
Campaign Management	Tracking ad performance for Return on Investment (ROI), optimizing campaigns.	Not directly involved in campaign management for adware, but adware might pull ads that are part of legitimate campaigns running on platforms like AdFox.
Monetization Tool	Generating revenue from legitimate ad space on owned digital properties.	Adware illegitimately monetizes user browsing sessions by forcing ads, some of which might originate from or be branded by advertisers using platforms like AdFox.
Branding in Ad Creative	Advertisers may use the AdFox logo if they utilize the platform for their ads.	Ad creatives displayed by adware might contain "AdFox" branding, either because the ad is genuinely served through AdFox or because the adware distributor uses the branding.

Export to Sheets
III. The Unwanted Ad in Google Messages: Pinpointing the Source
The appearance of an unsolicited advertisement within a trusted application like Google Messages for web naturally raises questions about the security of the application itself.

A. Why Google is Unlikely the Culprit
Google dedicates substantial resources to securing its platforms and services, including Google Messages. It is highly improbable that Google would intentionally embed adware or viruses within its own communication applications. Such an action would severely undermine user trust and contradict Google's business model, which, despite its advertising components, relies on maintaining a certain level of data privacy and security as per its stated policies.

The characteristics of the observed ad—its content, presentation, and intrusive nature—are typical of third-party ad injections rather than first-party advertisements that Google might place within its services. Google's own advertisements are generally clearly demarcated and integrated in a less disruptive manner. Furthermore, Google's policies often prohibit the distribution of even its own ads through certain software applications like toolbars or browser extensions, indicating a stance against such ad injection practices.   

B. The PC (Chrome Browser) as the Locus of Injection
The most common vectors for the injection of unauthorized advertisements into web pages viewed on a PC are malicious browser extensions and adware/PUPs installed on the system.

Malicious Browser Extensions: These are add-ons for web browsers like Chrome that, once installed, can gain extensive permissions. These permissions may allow them to read and modify the content of any webpage visited, including messages.google.com. Attackers can develop extensions with ad-injecting capabilities or compromise existing legitimate extensions by purchasing them from original developers or hacking developer accounts, then updating them with malicious code. These extensions then inject JavaScript code to display ads.   

Adware or Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) on the PC: This category includes software that is often bundled with free application downloads or installed via deceptive means. Once on a system, adware can operate in the background to inject advertisements into browser sessions, modify browser settings, or track user activity.   

Both malicious extensions and adware typically use JavaScript to dynamically alter the Document Object Model (DOM) of the target webpage. The DOM is the structured representation of the HTML content of a page. By manipulating the DOM, these programs can insert new HTML elements (like <div> or <img> tags) and CSS styles to display the unwanted ad, making it appear as part of the page content or as an overlay.

C. Clarifying Your Samsung Fold2's Role
The Samsung Fold2 Android phone plays a role in the Google Messages ecosystem, particularly when using Google Messages for web for SMS/RCS messaging. The web client on the PC synchronizes with the Messages app on the phone. When text is submitted via the web interface, the communication is typically routed through Google's servers and then via the phone's mobile carrier connection to deliver the SMS/RCS message. The phone then confirms the message status back to the web client.

The observation that the ad "appeared after I submitted text and it contacted my Samsung phone" describes this normal operational flow. The act of sending a message and the subsequent update of the webpage content (e.g., the new message appearing in the chat flow) could have served as a trigger for the adware or malicious extension already present on the PC to execute its ad-injection payload. This does not imply that the Samsung Fold2 injected the ad into the PC's browser, nor does it suggest that the phone itself is compromised with PC-specific adware. The ad appeared within the Chrome browser on the PC, pointing to a PC-local issue. The phone's interaction was likely a coincidental part of the normal message sending process that caused a state change on the webpage, which the malicious PC software was programmed to detect and react to.

The following table compares common ad injection vectors on a PC, highlighting why a browser extension or system-level adware is the most probable cause for the observed ad.

Table 2: Comparison of Common Ad Injection Vectors on a PC

Feature	Malicious Browser Extension	Adware/PUP on PC	Compromised Website Script (Very Unlikely for Google Messages)
Primary Infection Method	Deceptive downloads from unofficial stores; bundled with free software; legitimate extension later compromised.	Bundled with free software; drive-by downloads from malicious sites; deceptive installers.	Website's own code is hacked to include malicious scripts.
Mechanism of Ad Injection	Uses granted browser permissions (e.g., to read/modify page data) to inject JavaScript/HTML into the page's DOM.	System-level processes may hook into browser traffic or directly manipulate browser processes to inject ads.	Malicious script already part of the website's code.
Key Indicators	Unfamiliar extensions listed in browser settings; ads appear on many different websites; specific permissions requested.	Slow PC performance; general ad pop-ups beyond the browser; unwanted programs installed.	Specific site shows ads consistently for all users (if widespread) or only for users visiting a compromised version.
Scope of Impact	Primarily within the affected browser.	Can affect multiple browsers or even display ads outside of browser context.	Affects users visiting the specific compromised website.
  
IV. Architectural Breakdown: The 10 Steps of Ad Injection into Google Messages Web 🛠️
The following 10-step architectural breakdown illustrates a common scenario of how a malicious Chrome browser extension installed on a PC could inject an advertisement like the "AdFox / dealsbe.com" ad into the Google Messages for web interface. This process occurs on the PC and within its Chrome browser environment.

⓪ ⚙️ Pre-computation/Setup: The Attacker's Preparation

Malicious actors develop a browser extension designed to inject ads or acquire an existing extension and modify it. This involves embedding scripts capable of fetching and displaying ads, along with logic to target specific websites (like messages.google.com) or user behaviors. The extension is then packaged and prepared for distribution, often through deceptive channels or by bundling it with seemingly legitimate free software. Configuration for connecting to Command & Control (C&C) servers or ad networks is also embedded.
1. 📥 Initial Compromise: How Ad-Injecting Software Lands on Your PC

Action: The user unknowingly installs a malicious browser extension into the Chrome browser on their PC.
Mechanism: This installation can occur through various deceptive means:
Downloading the extension from an unofficial or third-party website that hosts unvetted software.
Installing an extension that initially appears legitimate but is later sold to a malicious developer who updates it with ad-injecting code, or whose developer account is compromised.   
Downloading and installing a free software program (e.g., a PDF converter, video downloader, system utility) that bundles the malicious extension as an "optional" add-on, often with pre-checked installation boxes that are easily overlooked by the user.   
Clicking on a misleading advertisement (malvertising) or a phishing link that directly prompts the installation of the malicious extension.   
Products Involved: 🖥️ PC, 🌐 Chrome Browser, 🧩 Malicious Browser Extension.
2. 🤫 Stealthy Activation & Permission Granting

Action: Once installed in Chrome on the PC, the malicious extension activates, typically automatically when the browser starts.
Mechanism: During the installation process (or via a subsequent update), the extension requests certain permissions from the user. For ad injection to be effective, these permissions are often broad and powerful, such as the ability to "read and change all your data on websites you visit" (often corresponding to the <all_urls> host permission), access to storage for saving configuration or stolen data, scripting capabilities to execute arbitrary JavaScript on pages, and webRequest APIs to intercept or modify network traffic. Users may grant these permissions without fully understanding their implications.   
Products Involved: 🌐 Chrome Browser, 🧩 Malicious Browser Extension.
3. 📡 Establishing Command & Control (C&C) Communication

Action: The malicious extension on the PC may initiate communication with a remote Command & Control (C&C) server operated by the attackers.
Mechanism: This connection allows the attackers to dynamically manage the extension's behavior. The C&C server can provide updated lists of target websites, new ad sources or campaign IDs, modified JavaScript payloads for injection, or instructions to exfiltrate collected user data. This makes the malicious operation flexible and adaptable without requiring a full update of the extension through an official store.   
Products Involved: 🖥️ PC (Chrome, Extension), 🔗 Internet Connection, ☁️ Attacker's C&C Server.
4. 🧐 Monitoring Web Activity: Targeting Google Messages

Action: The extension's background scripts, running within the Chrome browser on the PC, actively monitor the user's browsing activity.
Mechanism: The extension is programmed to identify when the user navigates to specific URLs, such as messages.google.com. It might check the current URL against a list of targets (potentially updated by the C&C server) or look for specific HTML structures, JavaScript variables, or keywords present on the Google Messages page to confirm it is the intended target.
Products Involved: 🌐 Chrome Browser, 🧩 Malicious Browser Extension, 💬 Google Messages web application.
5. ⚡ Trigger Event: Action in Google Messages (e.g., sending text, page load)

Action: A specific event occurs within the Google Messages web interface that the malicious extension is programmed to recognize and react to.
Mechanism: This trigger could be one of several actions:
The initial loading and rendering of the messages.google.com page.
A significant DOM update, such as when a user sends a message (as described in the initial query: "It appeared after I submitted text"). This action involves client-server communication (potentially involving the Samsung Fold2 for SMS/RCS relay via Google's servers) and results in the webpage updating to display the newly sent message.
The arrival of a new incoming message, which also updates the page's DOM.
Specific JavaScript events firing on the page, or timers elapsing.
Products Involved: 🖥️ PC (Chrome, Extension), 💬 Google Messages web application, (Indirectly: 📱 Samsung Fold2 via message synchronization causing web UI update).
6. 💻 Dynamic Code Injection: Altering the Google Messages Web Page

Action: Upon detecting the trigger event, the malicious browser extension leverages its granted permissions to inject custom JavaScript code directly into the live Document Object Model (DOM) of the Google Messages web page running in the user's browser.
Mechanism: The extension's content scripts or background scripts execute functions that dynamically create <script> elements containing malicious JavaScript or directly execute JavaScript within the page's context. This injected code is the primary means by which the ad will be displayed. In some sophisticated attacks, the extension might attempt to disable or bypass the website's Content Security Policy (CSP) to allow its unauthorized scripts to run and fetch external resources. The injected code is often obfuscated to hinder analysis and detection.   
Products Involved: 🌐 Chrome Browser, 🧩 Malicious Browser Extension, 📄 Google Messages web page (its DOM).
7. 🖼️ Ad Content Retrieval: Fetching the AdFox/dealsbe.com Ad

Action: The injected JavaScript code, now running within the context of the Google Messages page on the PC, makes one or more new HTTP(S) requests from the user's browser.
Mechanism: These requests are directed to an ad server or a chain of redirecting servers to fetch the actual advertisement content. This content could include the image for "dealsbe.com" (potentially hosted on or served via the AdFox platform or another ad network), the destination URL for the ad click, and any associated tracking pixels or scripts. The URL for this ad request might have been pre-configured in the extension or dynamically supplied by the C&C server (Step 3).
Products Involved: 🌐 Chrome Browser (executing injected script), 🔗 Internet Connection, 📢 Ad Server (e.g., AdFox network, dealsbe.com's ad provider, or intermediary ad exchanges).
8. 🖥️ DOM Manipulation: Displaying the Injected Ad in the Flow

Action: After the ad content (image, text, link) is successfully retrieved, the injected JavaScript manipulates the DOM of the Google Messages page to render and display the advertisement.
Mechanism: The script creates new HTML elements (e.g., <div> containers, <img> tags for the ad image, <a> tags for the clickable link) and inserts them into the existing structure of the Google Messages interface. It applies CSS styles to control the ad's position, size, and appearance, potentially making it appear as an overlay, a new message bubble within the conversation flow, an inline banner, or another intrusive format. This is the step where the "AdFox / dealsbe.com" image and link would "paste itself into the G Messages flow".   
Products Involved: 🌐 Chrome Browser (rendering engine), 📄 Google Messages web page (its DOM being actively modified by the injected script).
9. 📈 Tracking & Data Collection (by the ad injector)

Action: The injected ad code, or the malicious extension itself, often includes mechanisms for tracking ad impressions and user interactions.
Mechanism: An impression is typically recorded (i.e., the fact that the ad was displayed to the user). If the user clicks on the injected ad, this click event is captured and tracked. This interaction data (impressions, clicks) is sent back to the ad server, the attacker's C&C server, or an affiliate network. This tracking is crucial for the adware distributor's monetization, as they are often paid based on these metrics. Beyond ad interactions, some malicious extensions may attempt to exfiltrate other sensitive data from the page or from the user's broader browsing activity.   
Products Involved: 🌐 Chrome Browser (executing tracking scripts), 🔗 Internet Connection, 📢 Ad Server/☁️ C&C Server.
10. 🔄 Persistence & Evasion: Ensuring Longevity

Action: The malicious browser extension implements measures to ensure its continued operation and to avoid easy detection and removal.
Mechanism: By default, installed browser extensions are designed to load every time Chrome starts, ensuring persistence. The malicious code within the extension might be heavily obfuscated to make manual analysis difficult. The extension might use generic or misleading names to blend in with legitimate extensions. Some advanced malicious extensions may employ techniques to monitor if they are uninstalled and attempt to reinstall themselves, or use other methods to maintain their presence on the system and evade detection by basic ad blockers or even some security software.   
Products Involved: 🌐 Chrome Browser, 🧩 Malicious Browser Extension, 💻 PC's file system/registry (where extension data is stored).
This sequence illustrates the technical sophistication that can be involved in ad injection attacks, highlighting how software on the PC, rather than the web service itself or the connected phone, is responsible for the unwanted ad.

V. Why This Happens: Motivations and Common Culprits
Understanding the motivations behind ad injection and the common distribution methods for the software responsible is key to appreciating the scope of this issue.

A. The Ad Injection Ecosystem and Motivations
The primary driver behind virtually all ad injection activities is financial gain. Adware developers, distributors of malicious browser extensions, and operators of these schemes earn money through several avenues:   

Pay-Per-Click (PPC): Revenue is generated each time a user clicks on an injected advertisement.
Pay-Per-Impression (PPI): Revenue is generated simply by displaying advertisements to users, even if they are not clicked.
Affiliate Marketing Fraud: Injected ads or browser modifications can redirect users to specific e-commerce sites or online services through affiliate links. The adware operator then earns a commission on any purchases made or sign-ups completed by the user.
Data Collection and Sale: Some adware and malicious extensions are designed to collect user browsing history, search queries, and other personal data. This information can be sold to third-party data brokers or used for more targeted (and often still unwanted) advertising.   
Search Engine Hijacking: Extensions can forcibly change the browser's default search engine to one that benefits the attacker, often by displaying more ads or lower-quality search results.
The responsibility for ad injections is diffuse and involves multiple parties in a complex ecosystem. This can include software development firms that monetize their free applications by bundling ad-injecting software, publishers who might unknowingly (or sometimes knowingly) install plugins on their sites that lead to more aggressive or uncontrolled ad displays, and the opaque nature of programmatic ad buying which can create opportunities for unwanted ads to be pushed through various networks and exchanges. The core issue is the unauthorized monetization of a user's browsing sessions and digital space, often at the expense of the user's experience and sometimes their privacy and security.   

B. How Malicious Extensions and Adware are Distributed
The software responsible for ad injection finds its way onto users' PCs through several common channels:

Bundling with Free Software (Freeware/Shareware): This is one of the most prevalent distribution methods. Users download a desired free application (e.g., PDF converters, video downloaders, system utilities, games), and the adware or malicious extension is included as part of the installation package. Often, the option to decline the bundled software is hidden in "custom" or "advanced" installation settings, or presented with confusing language and pre-checked opt-in boxes. Many users click through installers quickly without carefully reviewing each step, inadvertently agreeing to install these Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs).   
Deceptive Downloads from Unofficial Sources/Stores: Downloading browser extensions or software from outside official repositories like the Chrome Web Store or trusted vendor websites significantly increases the risk of encountering malicious versions or bundles. These unofficial sources often lack rigorous security vetting.   
Malvertising (Malicious Advertising): Attackers use online advertisements, sometimes on legitimate websites, that are designed to trick users into clicking them. These clicks can lead to direct downloads of malware/adware or redirect users to pages that host exploit kits or deceptive installation prompts. The ads often promise useful tools or warn of fake virus infections to lure clicks.   
Compromised Legitimate Extensions: A more insidious method involves attackers gaining control of previously legitimate and sometimes popular browser extensions. This can happen if attackers purchase the extension from its original developer and then push a malicious update, or if they compromise the developer's account or update infrastructure to inject malicious code. Users who already have the extension installed may receive the malicious update automatically.   
Drive-by Downloads: In some cases, merely visiting a compromised or malicious website can trigger an automatic download and installation of malware or adware, especially if the user's browser or its plugins have unpatched vulnerabilities. While modern browsers have improved defenses against this, it remains a potential threat.   
The common thread in many of these distribution vectors is the exploitation of users' desire for free software or utilities. The perceived value of a "free" tool often masks the hidden cost of potential adware infection, leading to the ad injection scenarios like the one experienced.

VI. Fortifying Your Defenses: Recommendations for Prevention & Removal
Protecting a system from ad injection requires a combination of diligent software management, cautious browsing habits, and the use of security tools.

A. Inspecting and Managing Chrome Extensions
Regularly auditing installed browser extensions is a critical first step:

Review Installed Extensions: Periodically navigate to chrome://extensions in the Chrome browser. Carefully examine the list for any extensions that are unrecognized, were not intentionally installed, or whose functionality is unclear or suspicious.   
Scrutinize Permissions: For each installed extension, click on "Details" to review the permissions it has been granted. Be particularly wary of extensions that request broad permissions like "Read and change all your data on all websites you visit" if their stated purpose does not clearly justify such access. An extension's permissions should be proportionate to its functionality.   
Remove or Disable Suspicious Extensions: If an extension seems suspicious, disable it first. Observe if the unwanted ad problem ceases. If it does, the disabled extension is likely the culprit and should be removed.
Verify Extension Source and Updates: Ideally, extensions should only be installed from the official Chrome Web Store. However, even extensions from the official store can occasionally be compromised or turn malicious after an update. Advanced tools or methods can sometimes check the update_url of an extension; if this URL does not point to the standard Google update service (e.g., https://clients2.google.com/service/update2/crx), the extension may have been sideloaded or tampered with and warrants investigation.   
B. Comprehensive System Security Scans
Beyond browser extensions, the underlying operating system should be checked for adware or malware:

Utilize Reputable Antivirus/Anti-Malware Software: Install and maintain a high-quality antivirus or anti-malware security suite on the PC. Ensure that its virus definitions are kept up to date and perform regular full system scans. Such software can detect and remove many types of adware, PUPs, and other malware that might be responsible for ad injections.   
Consider Adware-Specific Removal Tools: Some security vendors offer specialized tools designed specifically to detect and remove adware and PUPs, which may sometimes be missed by general-purpose antivirus software or classified differently.
C. Safe Browsing and Installation Practices
Proactive measures during browsing and software installation can significantly reduce risk:

Download Software Only from Official and Trusted Sources: Avoid downloading executable files or browser extensions from third-party download sites, torrents, or links in unsolicited emails or pop-up ads. Whenever possible, obtain software directly from the official vendor's website or reputable application stores.
Exercise Caution During Software Installation: When installing any software, especially freeware, always choose the "Custom" or "Advanced" installation option if available. Carefully read all installation prompts and uncheck any boxes that offer to install bundled software, toolbars, browser extensions, or make changes to browser settings unless these additions are explicitly desired and understood.   
Be Wary of Deceptive Pop-ups and Warnings: Treat pop-up advertisements or system warnings with extreme skepticism, particularly those that claim the PC is infected, that essential software is outdated, or that offer unsolicited "cleaning" or "optimization" tools. These are common tactics used to distribute adware and malware. Do not click links or download files from such pop-ups.   
Keep All Software Updated: Regularly update the operating system, web browser (Chrome), all browser extensions, and other installed applications, including security software. Updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malware or adware.   
Heed Browser Security Warnings: Modern web browsers like Chrome incorporate security features that warn users about potentially unsafe websites or malicious downloads. Pay close attention to these warnings (e.g., "This site may harm your computer," "The file isn't commonly downloaded and may be dangerous") and avoid proceeding unless the source is unequivocally trusted.   
D. Recognizing Signs of Adware/Malicious Extension Activity
Being aware of common symptoms can help in the early detection of an adware or malicious extension problem. The following table outlines key indicators:

Table 3: Key Indicators of Adware/Malicious Extension Activity on Your PC

Indicator Type	Specific Signs	Potential Implication
Browser Behavior Changes	Homepage or default search engine changes without consent; new, unfamiliar toolbars or extensions appear; websites don't display correctly (e.g., random words hyperlinked with ads); frequent browser crashes or freezes.	Browser hijacking by adware or malicious extension.
Ad Appearance	Ads appearing in unusual places (e.g., on non-commercial sites, within desktop applications not designed for ads); a significant increase in pop-up ads, even when not actively browsing; ads that are difficult to close or that automatically redirect to other suspicious sites.	Active adware infection or malicious extension activity.
System Performance Issues	The PC or internet connection becomes noticeably slower than usual; the web browser or specific unknown processes consume excessive CPU or memory resources.	Adware/malware consuming system resources in the background.
Security Software Alerts	Antivirus or anti-malware program flags suspicious files, network activity, or browser modifications; repeated detection of similar threats.	Active malware or PUP detected on the system.
Unwanted Software Installations	New programs or applications appear on the PC that the user does not recall installing; unfamiliar icons appear on the desktop or in the system tray.	Bundled adware or PUP installation occurred.
  
VII. Concluding Analysis: Your Path to a Cleaner Browsing Experience
The investigation into the appearance of the "AdFox / dealsbe.com" advertisement within the Google Messages for web interface concludes that this was an artifact of an ad injection attack originating from software on the user's PC. This was likely orchestrated by a malicious browser extension installed in Chrome or by a system-level adware program. Google Messages for web served as the targeted canvas for this ad display, not as the source of the malicious software or the advertisement itself. The Samsung Fold2's involvement was consistent with its standard operational role in synchronizing messages, with the page updates caused by this synchronization potentially acting as a trigger for the PC-based ad injection.

Understanding the technical mechanisms of ad injection, as detailed in the 10-step architectural breakdown, provides clarity on how such intrusions occur. The primary motivation behind these activities is financial, driven by an ecosystem that seeks to monetize user attention and data through unauthorized means.

By implementing the recommended security practices—including diligent review and management of browser extensions, cautious software download and installation habits, the use of robust security software, and awareness of the signs of infection—users can significantly reduce their risk of encountering unwanted ad injections and maintain a more secure and controlled browsing environment. Vigilance and proactive security hygiene are paramount in navigating the complexities of the modern web.


Sources used in the report

youtube.com
I Found Woodworkings MOST Forgotten Tool (the truth humbled me) - YouTube
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improvado.io
AdFox | Docs - Improvado
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docs.gamepush.com
Adfox (Web) - GamePush
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beprepared.com
Home Run Deals – Be Prepared - Emergency Essentials
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ads.yandex.com
ads.yandex.com
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adfox.yandex.com
ADFOX
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startupdefense.io
Malicious Advertising Network Injection: Risks Decoded - Startup Defense
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spin.ai
The Escalating Threat of Malicious Browser Extensions: How to Protect Your Organization
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publift.com
What You Need To Know About Ad Injection | Publift
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geoedge.com
What Is a Malicious Browser Extension & How to Get Rid Of It At Scale - GeoEdge
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publir.com
What Is Ad Injection and How To Tackle It - Publir
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sentinelone.com
What is Adware? Detection and Prevention Tips - SentinelOne
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elastic.co
How to detect malicious browser extensions using Elastic
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stackoverflow.com
Inject advertisements in pages - google chrome - Stack Overflow
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security.org
What Is Adware and How Do You Prevent It in 2025? - Security.org
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us.norton.com
What is adware? (+ tips for prevention and removal) - Norton
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imperva.com
What Is HTML Injection | Types, Risks & Mitigation Techniques | Imperva
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unit42.paloaltonetworks.com
Malicious JavaScript Injection Campaign Infects 51k Websites - Palo Alto Networks Unit 42
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Sources read but not used in the report
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Thoughts
Understanding Unexpected Ads
I'm looking into why an 'AdFox' ad for 'dealsbe.com' appeared within your Google Messages for web on your PC. It's understandable to be concerned about unexpected ads, and I'm working to provide a clear, technical explanation of how this might have happened.
Initial Research Focus
My first step is to understand what AdFox and dealsbe.com are. I'll then investigate common ways ads get injected into web browsers, particularly focusing on how browser extensions or adware might manipulate a webpage's content to display these ads. This will help me construct a detailed, step-by-step technical breakdown of the process.
Addressing Specific Concerns
I'll also address your questions about whether Google distributes adware and why your Samsung Fold2 phone is unlikely to be the direct cause of the ad appearing on your PC's web browser. My goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the situation.

Researching websites

youtube.com
I Found Woodworkings MOST Forgotten Tool (the truth humbled me) - YouTube

madeirabeachfl.gov
Scammer Red Flags! - Madeira Beach, FL

improvado.io
AdFox | Docs - Improvado

youtube.com
Was the OG Vaporfly Peak? $500 Shoes!? Is Puma Top 3?? | Buy or Sell Ft. Yowana

docs.gamepush.com
Adfox (Web) - GamePush

beprepared.com
Home Run Deals – Be Prepared - Emergency Essentials

ads.yandex.com
ads.yandex.com

adfox.yandex.com
ADFOX
Clarifying AdFox and Dealsbe.com
I've confirmed that AdFox is a legitimate ad management platform, often associated with Yandex, used by businesses to serve and manage online advertisements. This means AdFox itself isn't malicious, but rather a tool for ad delivery. Regarding 'dealsbe.com,' the information suggests it's likely a platform for various deals, possibly software-related, and it appears to be an advertiser utilizing AdFox or a similar ad network.
Focusing on Ad Injection Mechanisms
My next step is to delve deeper into the technical mechanisms of how ads can be injected into web pages. I'll be focusing on how browser extensions and adware can modify the Document Object Model (DOM) of a webpage to display unwanted advertisements. This will be crucial for building the detailed, step-by-step architectural breakdown you requested.

Researching websites

startupdefense.io
Malicious Advertising Network Injection: Risks Decoded - Startup Defense

spin.ai
The Escalating Threat of Malicious Browser Extensions: How to Protect Your Organization

publift.com
What You Need To Know About Ad Injection | Publift

geoedge.com
What Is a Malicious Browser Extension & How to Get Rid Of It At Scale - GeoEdge

publir.com
What Is Ad Injection and How To Tackle It - Publir

sentinelone.com
What is Adware? Detection and Prevention Tips - SentinelOne

elastic.co
How to detect malicious browser extensions using Elastic

stackoverflow.com
Inject advertisements in pages - google chrome - Stack Overflow

security.org
What Is Adware and How Do You Prevent It in 2025? - Security.org

us.norton.com
What is adware? (+ tips for prevention and removal) - Norton

imperva.com
What Is HTML Injection | Types, Risks & Mitigation Techniques | Imperva

unit42.paloaltonetworks.com

Check out the configuration reference at https://huggingface.co/docs/hub/spaces-config-reference


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Lets take a different approach. Please code a short ten point html js game based on defense of the different components I mention against an adware attack which plays out adding a man in the middle SMS message into a chat conversation shared between two parties and two devices a PC with GPU and AI which is meant to sandbox AI caps to escape, and the Android Fold2 Device which also has same app running on android mobile yet has SMS client server interactions with cell phone over wifi. replay the most probably attack patterns in thinking and research how the tools and detection mechanisms could easily discern this from the SMS chat history which could be pasted in by a third user so supperpotive of personal superintelligence to defend against channels they believe to be secure and which privacy policy per product is likely containing facts to confirm if user agreed using Gemini, Gemini android, Google Messages (PC in Chrome) and google messages app on android device. in web html js app also show mermaid model of the attack using emojis and very large fonts so user even one unaware of the tech can understand where the ad detected the sms inpout and where it surrepticiously injects the add from a third party. In the test the user had pasted a link which when sending retrieves a yaml file and displays an html component shoing the huggingface space. Do the app and network architecture model to show each component and then theorize how to communicate and sell an add removal agent to the user using same said AI. I am using Gemini, Video, Deep Research and Canvas as tools and need to deploy the html js to huggingface after testing on Gemini Canvas.