Cars – New 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: | 11,714 |
| Threat Level: | 20 % (Normal) |
| Infected Computers: | 65 |
| First Seen: | November 14, 2022 |
| Last Seen: | September 23, 2023 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
The Cars – New Tab browser extension is marketed as a tool designed to showcase automobile-themed browser wallpapers to car fans. However, after infosec researchers conducted a thorough analysis of the application, they discovered that its main function is that of a browser hijacker. Indeed, once it has been installed on the user's device, the Cars – New Tab will alter several crucial browser settings with the intention of promoting the dbdextension.com fake search engine.
Browser Hijackers Like the Cars – New Tab Often Lead to Privacy and Security Issues
The Cars – New Tab switches the default search engine, homepage, and new page tab of the user's browser to the dbdextension.com website. As a result, whenever users open a new browser tab or enter a search query into the URL bar, it would cause a redirect to dbdextension.com. Similar to other browser hijackers, the Cars – New Tab is also likely to utilize techniques to ensure persistence, making it difficult for users to regain control of their browsers.
Fake search engines typically are not capable of providing legitimate search results. Instead, they operate by redirecting the users' search queries and showing results taken from an authentic search engine. Indeed, dbdextension.com follows this exact pattern and has been observed redirecting to various genuine search engines such as Bing (bing.com) and Google (google.com). However, it's worth noting that the destinations of the forced redirects may vary depending on factors like user geolocation.
In addition, the Cars – New Tab may engage in intrusive behavior by monitoring users' browsing activity. The data it seeks may include visited URLs, viewed pages, search queries, internet cookies, account login credentials, personally identifiable information, financial details and more. This sensitive data can then be monetized through its sale to third parties.
Dubious Tactics Employed in the Distribution of PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) and Browser Hijackers
Users should exercise caution and remain vigilant about the dubious tactics utilized in the distribution of PUPs and browser hijackers. These software applications are often installed without the explicit consent or knowledge of users, leading to unwanted changes in their browsers and potential privacy and security risks.
PUPs and browser hijackers commonly employ deceptive distribution techniques to trick users into unintentionally installing them. They may be bundled with freeware or shareware applications, hidden within software installers, or disguised as legitimate browser extensions. Users should be cautious when downloading software from unfamiliar sources and always opt for custom installation options to carefully review and deselect any additional programs bundled with the desired software.
