Best Friend Backgrounds Browser Extension

Cybersecurity researchers stumbled upon the Best Friend Backgrounds browser extension while routinely examining websites known for their untrustworthy nature. This particular extension initially presents itself as a tool designed to provide users with delightful canine-themed browser wallpapers.

However, upon a detailed analysis of this software, the experts have unequivocally identified it as a browser hijacker. What this means is that the Best Friend Backgrounds, once installed, go beyond its stated purpose and start making unwarranted modifications to a user's browser settings. These alterations are carried out with the primary intent of promoting a fraudulent search engine known as bestfriendbackgrounds.com, primarily through the use of annoying redirects.

Browser Hijackers Like Best Friend Backgrounds May Perform Unauthorized Changes

Browser hijackers are a type of intrusive software that takes control of certain settings in Web browsers, in most cases including the default search engine, homepage and new tab pages. This manipulation means that whenever a user conducts a Web search through the URL bar or opens a new browser tab/window, they are redirected to a specific website that the hijacker promotes.

In the case of the Best Friend Backgrounds browser extension, it alters these settings to promote bestfriendbackgrounds.com. Typically, fake search engines like bestfriendbackgrounds.com cannot provide genuine search results, so they resort to redirecting users to legitimate Internet search websites. However, during the research, it was observed that bestfriendbackgrounds.com failed to execute these redirects successfully.

According to the extension's description, the intended redirects were meant to lead users to the Bing search engine. It's important to note that the success of bestfriendbackgrounds.com redirects may vary, as they can be controlled by factors such as the user's geolocation.

Browser-hijacking software often employs tactics to ensure persistence, such as restricting users' access to settings related to removal or undoing any changes made by the user to regain control. This makes it challenging for users to restore their browsers to their original state.

Additionally, software falling into this category commonly possesses data-tracking capabilities, and the Best Friend Backgrounds may not be an exception. This tracking may encompass various forms of information, including visited URLs, viewed webpages, search queries, Internet cookies, login credentials, personally identifiable details, financial data and more. The collected data can then be shared with or sold to fraud-related third parties, raising concerns about user privacy and security.

Browser Hijackers are Rarely Installed Knowingly

Browser hijackers are rarely installed knowingly by users for several reasons:

• Deceptive Installation Methods: Browser hijackers are often bundled with seemingly legitimate software or disguised as useful browser extensions. Users may unintentionally install them when downloading and installing software or extensions from untrustworthy sources. These hijackers are hidden within the installation process, and users may not notice them.
• Misleading Descriptions: Some browser hijackers may have misleading or vague descriptions that do not accurately represent their true functions. Users may be tricked into believing they are installing a useful tool, only to discover later that it hijacks their browser settings.
• Social Engineering: Some browser hijackers use social engineering tactics to manipulate users into installing them. They may present fake security warnings or compelling messages, urging users to download and install a supposed "security" or "performance-enhancing" application.
• Lack of Awareness: Many users may not be fully aware of the possible perils associated with downloading and installing software or extensions. They may not thoroughly review the permissions and settings changes during installation, assuming that the software is safe.
• Freeware and Shareware: Browser hijackers are often bundled with free or shareware applications, where developers may generate revenue by including these hijackers. Users may unknowingly accept the bundled software during the installation process.
• Lack of Technical Knowledge: Many users may not have the technical knowledge or experience to detect and remove browser hijackers effectively. They may rely on anti-malware software or other security tools to identify and address such issues.

To protect against unintentional installation of browser hijackers, users are recommended to be cautious when downloading and installing software, extensions or updates. It's essential to use reputable sources, read user reviews, and carefully review the permissions requested during installation. Additionally, regularly updating and running reputable anti-malware software can help detect and remove browser hijackers.