Flash-Search Browser Extension
Threat Scorecard
EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecard
EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards are assessment reports for different malware threats which have been collected and analyzed by our research team. EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards evaluate and rank threats using several metrics including real-world and potential risk factors, trends, frequency, prevalence, and persistence. EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards are updated regularly based on our research data and metrics and are useful for a wide range of computer users, from end users seeking solutions to remove malware from their systems to security experts analyzing threats.
EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards display a variety of useful information, including:
Ranking: The ranking of a particular threat in EnigmaSoft’s Threat Database.
Severity Level: The determined severity level of an object, represented numerically, based on our risk modeling process and research, as explained in our Threat Assessment Criteria.
Infected Computers: The number of confirmed and suspected cases of a particular threat detected on infected computers as reported by SpyHunter.
See also Threat Assessment Criteria.
| Ranking: | 18,709 |
| Threat Level: | 20 % (Normal) |
| Infected Computers: | 5 |
| First Seen: | April 3, 2023 |
| Last Seen: | July 13, 2023 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
Cybersecurity researchers analyzed the Flash-Search browser extension and determined that it functions as a browser hijacker. The primary target of this program is to promote flash-search.xyz, which is a fake search engine. In order to achieve this objective, Flash-Search modifies the settings of the user's web browser.
Table of Contents
Browser Hijackers Like Flash-Search may Cause Privacy Concerns
After the Flash-Search browser extension is added to a user's browser, it modifies several browser settings. This includes changing the homepage and search engine settings, which redirect users to flash-search.xyz, a fake search engine. The fake search engine displays search results from Bing (bing.com) and has the potential to redirect users to other websites, such as nearbyme.io.
However, it is essential to note that fake and unreliable search engines cause several issues. Such engines can display untrustworthy or fraudulent content and also gather user search queries and personal data. The information collected by these fake search engines can be used in various ways that put users' security and privacy at risk.
Therefore, it is highly recommended that users avoid using such search engines and instead opt for established and trustworthy ones. In addition, it is worth noting that browser hijackers can prevent users from modifying their default homepage or search engine settings. These hijackers could make it challenging and very difficult for users to revert their browser settings back to their original state or remove the PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program) from their devices.
The Shady Tactics Involved in the Distribution of PUPs and Browser Hijackers
A variety of questionable tactics may be used to install browser hijackers and PUPs on users' devices. One of the most common tactics is the use of software bundling, where a legitimate program is packaged with additional unwanted software, such as browser extensions, toolbars, or adware, which get installed without the user's knowledge or consent.
Another tactic is the use of deceptive ads or pop-ups that prompt users to download or install a program, claiming that it is necessary for the proper functioning of their device or software. These ads often use scare tactics or offer free downloads, tempting users to click on them.
Social engineering moves, such as phishing emails or fraudulent websites, are also frequently employed to trick users into downloading and installing PUPs or browser hijackers. For example, they may remit an email that seems to be from a legitimate source, such as a bank or e-commerce site, and ask the user to download a program or update their account information, which contains malware.
URLs
Flash-Search Browser Extension may call the following URLs:
| flash-search.xyz |
