GPT Search Navigator
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: | 18,634 |
| Threat Level: | 50 % (Medium) |
| Infected Computers: | 10 |
| First Seen: | March 1, 2023 |
| Last Seen: | September 20, 2023 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
The ChatGPT Artificial Intelligence chatbot developed by OpenAI has taken over the world by storm, and many people are fascinated by the capabilities of this new tool. However, unscrupulous software developers are starting to exploit the popularity of the tool to spread their intrusive applications and PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) under the guise of useful products that could expand ChatGPT's abilities. The GPT Search Navigator is exactly such an untrustworthy application.
The GPT Search Navigator browser extension claims to enhance the way users do Google searches. However, after inspecting the extension, it was found that GPT Search Navigator is a browser hijacker that promotes the use of the ask.gptsearchnavigator.com search engine. This search engine is fake and can lead to compromised search results and potentially harmful websites. Therefore, users should avoid installing such browser extensions, as they can be a potential security threat and compromise their privacy.
The GPT Search Navigator Acts as a Browser Hijacker
Browser hijacker is software that take control of a user'sWeb browser by modifying their settings, such as the default search engine, homepage, and new tab/windows. One example of a browser hijacker is the GPT Search Navigator.
Once installed on a computer, the GPT Search Navigator redirects all new browser tabs/windows and search queries entered into the URL bar to ask.gptsearchnavigator.com, which is a fake search engine. This fake search engine is incapable of providing reliable search results and instead redirects users to legitimate search engines, such as Google.
The GPT Search Navigator employs persistence-ensuring techniques that prevent the user's browser from recovering to its previous settings. This means that even if the users try to change their browser settings, they will be unable to do so because the hijacker has taken control.
Moreover, the GPT Search Navigator also spies on the user's browsing activity and collects sensitive information, including visited URLs, viewed Web pages, searched queries, bookmarks, usernames/passwords, credit card numbers and other personally identifiable details. This information can be sold to third parties for profit or used for other nefarious purposes. Therefore, it is crucial to be cautious when browsing the Internet and avoid downloading or installing suspicious software.
How PUPs and Browser Hijackers Get Installed on Users' Devices?
Browser hijackers and Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) are typically spread through various deceptive tactics. One common method is through software bundling, which involves packaging the hijacker or PUP with legitimate software downloads, such as freeware or shareware. During the installation process, the user may unknowingly agree to install the bundled software as well.
Another way that browser hijackers and PUPs can spread is through deceptive online advertisements and pop-ups that mimic legitimate warnings or software updates. These advertisements may trick the user into downloading and installing the hijacker or PUP by presenting it as a necessary or helpful tool.
Moreover, some browser hijackers and PUPs can be distributed through tampered email attachments, social engineering tactics, and other forms of malware infections.
In summary, browser hijackers and PUPs can be spread through deceptive software bundling, fake online advertisements, social engineering tactics, and other malware infections. Be cautious when downloading software or clicking on advertisements and keep security software up-to-date to prevent these unwanted programs from infecting your computer.
