Naturey New Tab Browser Extension

The Naturey New Tab is marketed as a browser extension designed to showcase nature-themed wallpapers on new tabs. Despite its advertised purpose, cybersecurity researchers identified this software during their investigation of unreliable websites. Upon closer examination, these experts concluded that the Naturey New Tab functions as a browser hijacker. The extension alters browser settings with the intention of promoting the fraudulent search engine, natureynewtab.com.

The Naturey New Tab Browser Hijacker Takes Over Important Browser Settings

Typically, browser-hijacking software alters default settings in Web browsers, including search engines, homepages, and new tab pages, redirecting users to specified websites. Consequently, searches conducted through the URL bar and the opening of new browser tabs lead to redirects to the promoted site.

The Naturey New Tab, in particular, directs users to natureynewtab.com through these redirects. Remember that fake search engines often lack the capability to provide genuine search results and instead redirect users to established search websites, such as Bing in the case of Natureynewtab.com. However, the exact final destination may vary based on factors like user geolocation.

Browser hijackers commonly employ techniques to ensure persistence, hindering users from accessing removal-related settings or undoing changes to prevent browser recovery.

Additionally, software falling into this category often engages in monitoring users' online activities, a potential concern with the Naturey New Tab. This surveillance may encompass details like visited URLs, viewed pages, search queries, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable information, and credit card numbers. The collected data can be monetized through sales to third parties.

Browser Hijackers Try to Sneak Their Installation through Shady Distribution Tactics

Browser hijackers and Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) often employ shady distribution tactics to infiltrate users' systems. Some common methods include:

• Bundled Software: Browser hijackers and PUPs may be bundled with legitimate software downloads. Users who hastily install software without carefully reviewing the installation options may unintentionally agree to the installation of additional, unwanted programs.
•  Deceptive Advertisements: These programs may be promoted through deceptive online ads, enticing users with offers or alerts that encourage them to click and install. Such ads might mimic system warnings or software updates to mislead users.
•  Fake Software Updates: Users might encounter pop-up messages claiming that their software needs an update. Clicking on these fake update prompts may lead to the installation of browser hijackers or PUPs instead of legitimate updates.
•  Freeware and Shareware: Free software available on the internet can sometimes come bundled with unwanted programs. Users need to be cautious when downloading and installing free applications, as these may carry additional software that is not explicitly disclosed.
•  Social Engineering: Some distribution tactics involve social engineering techniques, such as fake surveys, quizzes, or giveaways that prompt users to install certain software to claim a reward. These tactics exploit users' trust and curiosity.
•  File-Sharing Networks: Users who download files from peer-to-peer or file-sharing networks may unknowingly download bundled software, including browser hijackers or PUPs.

To protect against these tactics, users should exercise caution when downloading software, keep their anti-malware programs up-to-date, and be skeptical of unsolicited pop-ups or advertisements. Additionally, reviewing the terms and conditions during software installations and opting for custom installation settings can help users avoid unwanted programs. Regularly scanning and cleaning the system with security software is also advisable to detect and remove any potential threats.