Abstract Art Tab 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: | 4,023 |
| Threat Level: | 50 % (Medium) |
| Infected Computers: | 119 |
| First Seen: | April 9, 2023 |
| Last Seen: | September 29, 2023 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
During the investigation of suspicious websites, researchers came across the Abstract Art Tab browser extension. This extension was advertised to its potential users as a helpful tool that allows them to change their browser's background to abstract art. However, upon analyzing the extension, it was confirmed that its main functionality is that of a browser hijacker.
Browser Hijackers Like Abstract Art Tab Take Over Vital Browser Settings
The Abstract Art Tab browser extension has been identified as a browser hijacker that alters default browser settings such as the homepage, new tab page, and the default search engine. Once installed, it redirects users to find.asrcnav.com, a fake search engine. Browser hijackers are designed to generate revenue by redirecting users to promoted websites.
To ensure that the hijacker remains installed, Abstract Art Tab and similar browser hijackers often use persistence-ensuring techniques that prevent easy removal of the extension. In addition, Abstract Art Tab may also collect user data, including Web browsing history, search queries, IP addresses, and login credentials, among other things. This information can then be shared or sold to third-party entities for profit.
Users should exercise caution when installing browser extensions and ensure that they read the permissions and privacy policy of the extension before installing it. It is advisable to avoid installing extensions from unknown sources.
PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) and Browser Hijackers Often Conceal Their Installation from Users
PUPs and browser hijackers are commonly distributed through questionable tactics that involve deceiving users into installing them. One common technique is through software bundling, which involves including the PUP or browser hijacker in the installer of legitimate software programs. Users may inadvertently agree to install these unwanted programs if they fail to read the terms and conditions during the installation process.
Another common tactic is through deceptive advertisements or fake download buttons on dubious websites. These advertisements or buttons may be designed to look like legitimate download buttons, leading users to click on them and download the unwanted program.
PUPs and browser hijackers also may be distributed through email spam campaigns or phishing emails, which encourage users to download or install software to fix supposed security issues or system errors. In some cases, PUPs may even masquerade as anti-malware software, tricking users into installing them in the belief that they are enhancing their system's security.
