Galaxy 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: | 6,555 |
| Threat Level: | 50 % (Medium) |
| Infected Computers: | 64 |
| First Seen: | May 23, 2023 |
| Last Seen: | September 22, 2023 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
The Galaxy Search browser extension presents itself as a convenient tool that will provide users with galaxy and space-themed wallpapers for their browsers. However, it was revealed upon closer scrutiny that Galaxy Search functions as a browser hijacker. Its primary objective is to modify several browser settings and forcefully promote the find.nseeknow.com fake search engine by redirecting users. The deceptive nature of Galaxy Search misleads users with its promised functionality while engaging in unwanted and potentially harmful browser modifications.
Browser Hijackers Like Galaxy Search Often Cause Privacy Issues
Galaxy Search reassigns the default search engine, homepage, and new page tab of the affected browsers to the find.nseeknow.com website. As a result of these modifications, whenever users open new tabs or initiate Web searches through the URL bar, they will be redirected to find.nseeknow.com.
It should be noted that illegitimate search engines often lack the capability to provide genuine search results. Therefore, they redirect users to legitimate Internet search platforms. This is exactly the way find.nseeknow.com operates by redirecting users to the Bing search engine. However, the destination of the redirect may vary, as factors like user geolocation can influence it.
It is crucial to highlight that browser-hijacking software commonly employs techniques to ensure persistence and make its removal challenging for users. This persistence prevents affected users from easily recovering their browsers and reversing the hijacking.
Furthermore, Galaxy Search, as is the case with most browser hijackers and PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs), can likely track user data. The information of interest that can be collected may include visited URLs, viewed webpages, search queries, frequently visited website lists, IP addresses (geolocation data), internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, financial-related data, and more. The collected data could be sold to third parties or exploited for profit in various ways.
Users Should Pay Attention to the Dubious Tactics Involved in the Distribution of Browser Hijackers and PUPs
The distribution of browser hijackers and PUPs often involves the utilization of various questionable tactics. These tactics are employed to deceive and manipulate users into unintentionally installing the PUPs on their systems.
One common method is software bundling. This involves bundling the invasive applications with legitimate software downloads or installers. Often, users fail to notice that additional software is included in the installation process, leading to the unintentional installation of the bundled browser hijackers or PUPs.
Another tactic involves the use of deceptive advertisements and misleading download buttons on websites. These advertisements and buttons may be designed to mimic legitimate download links or appear as urgent system alerts, tricking users into clicking on them. Upon clicking, users may unknowingly initiate the download and installation of browser hijackers or PUPs.
Social engineering tactics play a significant role in the distribution of browser hijackers and PUPs as well. Attackers often employ persuasive and manipulative techniques to convince users to download and install the software. This can include presenting false claims of the enhanced browsing experience, system optimization, or other enticing features to lure users into installing unwanted programs.
Overall, the distribution of browser hijackers and PUPs relies on various dubious tactics that exploit user trust, lack of awareness and deceptive techniques. Users need to remain vigilant, exercise caution when downloading software or clicking on links, and employ robust security measures to protect against these unwanted programs.
