Threat Database Browser Hijackers BetterSearch Default Search

BetterSearch Default Search

Threat Scorecard

Ranking: 6,929
Threat Level: 50 % (Medium)
Infected Computers: 235
First Seen: January 25, 2019
Last Seen: September 23, 2023
OS(es) Affected: Windows

The BetterSearch Default Search browser extension is created to promote and generate artificial traffic towards a sponsored page specifically. This means that it falls into the browser hijacker category, and users are advised not to keep it on their computers. Adware and browser hijackers also are typically considered PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs), due to the heavy reliance on questionable tactics, such as shady software bundles or fake installers as part of their distribution.

The invasive nature of the BetterSearch Default Search will become evident the moment the application is fully installed on the system. Users will notice that several important browser settings have suddenly been changed to open an unfamiliar address. In the case of this particular browser hijacker, it affects the homepage, new tab page, and the default search engine. All three settings will now begin opening the better-search.xyz address. While installed on the system, BetterSearch Default Search will safeguard the changes it made, and prevent users from restoring the settings to their previous states.

The promoted page is yet another fake search engine, meaning that it cannot generate search results on its own. The user's search queries will be taken from the legitimate Bing search engine. However, keep in mind that most fake search engines could display different behaviors based on a combination of factors and could show users results taken from dubious sources.

Another risk associated with PUPs and browser hijackers is the possibility of these applications having data-tracking functionalities. In most cases, the targeted information includes the entire browsing history, search history, clicked URLs, IP address, geolocation and more. However, it is also possible for the PUP to try and extract sensitive banking or payment data that has been saved into the affected browsers.

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