Architecture 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: | 5,648 |
| Threat Level: | 50 % (Medium) |
| Infected Computers: | 51 |
| First Seen: | May 12, 2023 |
| Last Seen: | September 26, 2023 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
After analyzing the Architecture Tab browser extension, it was discovered by infosec researchers that it possesses browser hijacker capabilities. This means that the application is capable of making intrusive changes to various browser settings to promote a fake search engine. In this case, the promoted address is srchingoz.com. It should be noted that users typically install browser hijackers, such as the Architecture Tab, on their devices unknowingly.
Browser Hijackers Like the Architecture Tab Should not be Trusted
The Architecture Tab is a browser extension that functions as a browser hijacker, forcing users to visit and use a fake search engine called srchingoz.com. This hijacker alters several browser settings, including the chosen search engine, homepage, and new tab page, to ensure that users are directed to srchingoz.com when opening a new browser window or conducting a Web search.
Although srchingoz.com appears to present search results from Bing, which is a legitimate search engine, users should not assume that the search results will always be trustworthy or safe. Fake and unreliable search engines may display fraudulent or unreliable content based on specific factors, such as IP addresses and geolocation. Furthermore, these types of intrusive apps may also collect users' search queries, browsing history, and other sensitive information. This data could then be misused in various ways, including identity theft, financial fraud, and other malicious activities.
In addition, browser hijackers such as the Architecture Tab could employ persistence techniques which make them difficult to remove. They also may prevent users from modifying affected browser settings unless they remove the application itself completely. Therefore, it is important for users to be cautious and vigilant when installing browser extensions or downloading software from unproven sources.
Browser Hijackers and PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) Utilize Dubious Distribution Methods
PUPs and browser hijackers often use shady distribution methods to infiltrate users' systems without their knowledge or consent. One common tactic is bundling, where the PUP or browser hijacker is bundled with legitimate software and installed together with it. The user may not notice that the PUP or browser hijacker is included in the installation package and inadvertently install it alongside the desired software.
Another distribution method involves deceptive advertising, where ads that appear to be legitimate are displayed on websites or in pop-ups. These advertisements may offer free downloads or software updates, but once clicked, they actually download the PUP or browser hijacker onto the user's system.
Another common distribution method involves the use of fake download buttons or misleading links that direct users to download the PUP or browser hijacker instead of the desired software or content. Additionally, PUPs and browser hijackers may be distributed via spam emails or through social engineering tactics, such as fake software update notifications or bogus tech support alerts.
