Tiger New Tab Browser Extension

While investigating questionable websites, researchers came across the Tiger New Tab extension, identifying it as a browser hijacker. This extension modifies browser settings to promote the tiger-newtab.com fake search engine through redirects. Furthermore, it is suspected to possess data-tracking capabilities, posing potential privacy and security concerns for users.

The Tiger New Tab Browser Extension Takes Over Essential Browser Settings

Browser-hijacking software is designed to alter various browser settings, including homepages, default search engines and new tabs pages. This manipulation becomes evident when users input search queries into the URL bar or open new browser tabs, leading to redirects to a specified website. In the case of Tiger New Tab, the promoted site is tiger-newtab.com.

It's essential to note that such software often employs tactics to maintain persistence by preventing users from accessing removal-related settings or reversing changes they attempt to make.

Fake search engines associated with this type of software typically lack the ability to generate genuine search results. Instead, they redirect users to legitimate Internet search websites. During the research, tiger-newtab.com was observed redirecting to the Bing search engine, though it's important to acknowledge that this destination may vary based on factors such as user geolocation.

Furthermore, the Tiger New Tab goes beyond browser manipulation and engages in spying on users' online activities. The data collected includes visited URLs, viewed pages, search queries, internet cookies, personally identifiable information and financial data. This gathered information can be monetized through sales to intermediaries, raising concerns about privacy and data security.

Browser Hijackers Often Utilize Dubious Tactics for Their Distribution

Browser hijackers frequently employ deceptive tactics to distribute and infiltrate users' systems. Some of the common strategies they use include:

• Bundled Software: Browser hijackers are often bundled with seemingly legitimate software that users willingly download. Users may not be aware of additional components included in the installation package, allowing the hijacker to infiltrate the system unnoticed.
•  Freeware and Shareware Downloads: Free software downloads from untrustworthy sources are a prime target for browser hijackers. Users looking for free applications may inadvertently download bundled software, leading to the installation of the hijacker.
•  Deceptive Advertisements: Hijackers may be distributed through misleading online advertisements, commonly known as malvertising. Clicking on these ads can trigger the download and installation of the browser hijacker without the user's explicit consent.
•  Fake Software Updates: Users may encounter fake software update prompts that claim to provide essential updates for their browsers or other applications. Clicking on these prompts can lead to the installation of browser hijackers instead of legitimate updates.
•  Social Engineering Tactics: Some browser hijackers use social engineering techniques to trick users into willingly installing them. This may involve misleading pop-up messages or alerts that convince users to install a seemingly beneficial extension or application.

To protect against browser hijackers, users should be cautious when downloading software, avoid clicking on suspicious links or ads, keep their software and operating system up-to-date, and use reputable security software to detect and prevent potential threats. Additionally, being aware of common distribution tactics can help users make informed decisions and avoid falling victim to these deceptive practices.