DirectionsOnline

The DirectionsOnline browser extension by Mindspark Interactive Network, Inc. is another addition to their line of navigation aid extensions, which include DirectionsBuilder, OnlineMapFinder, DirectionsWhiz, and MyMapsWizard. The DirectionsOnline extension claims to offer access to maps, directions instructions and traffic information. The services of the DirectionsOnline app are provided by modifying your new tab and homepage settings. The changes may be applied to Google Chrome, Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox. You might want to read the Terms of Use and Privacy Agreement before you proceed to install the DirectionsOnline app since it is an ad-supported product. DirectionsOnline is perceived as a Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP) that requires the following privileges:

• Read and change all your data on the websites you visit.
• Communicate with cooperating sites.
• Read and change your browsing history.
• Manage your downloads.
• Manage your apps, extensions and themes.

The DirectionsOnline does not provide resource dedicated to traffic information and maps. The extension works as a redirect-gateway to third-party content and reroutes users to hp.myway.com/directionsonline/ttab02 whenever they input search terms on their new tab and homepage. The DirectionsOnline program is designed to work with hp.myway.com/directionsonline/ttab02 and does not allow users to set a custom search provider. The page is powered by a modified Myway.com engine and delivers a significant number of sponsored search results, which many users may not appreciate. Also, the engine at hp.myway.com/directionsonline/ttab02 might not feel as responsive and user-friendly as Google and Bing. The connection to hp.myway.com/directionsonline/ttab02 lacks encryption and users may not feel comfortable with been exposed to Man-in-the-Middle attacks. PC users that do not wish to share information about their online activities with unknown third-parties and do not like hp.myway.com/directionsonline/ttab02 can remove the DirectionsOnline app and associated files with the assistance of a credible anti-spyware tool. AV vendors may flag the installer for DirectionsOnline as:

• Adware.AdLoadCRT.Win32.544
• Application.Win32.Agent.qapmf
• MyWebSearch.J (v)
• PUA.Toolbar.Agent!
• PUP.MindSpark/Variant
• PUP.Optional.MindSpark
• PUP.WebToolbar.MyWebSearch
• Riskware/Agent
• Win.Malware.Mywebsearch-447
• Win32/Virus.WebToolbar.5bb