Drop Tab Browser Extension

During the investigation of suspicious websites, researchers uncovered a browser extension called Drop Tab. The application is initially advertised as a tool designed to customize browser wallpapers. However, upon thorough examination, it becomes evident that the extension engages in deceptive and intrusive practices after being installed.

Drop Tab is designed to manipulate browser settings with the primary intention of promoting a fake search engine called search.droptab.net. The extension achieves this by redirecting users' search queries to the promoted page without their consent. Due to these unscrupulous practices, security experts and researchers have classified Drop Tab as a browser hijacker.

In addition, untrustworthy apps such as Drop Tab are also often capable of invading users' privacy by surreptitiously spying on their browsing activities. This intrusive surveillance is a serious concern as it compromises users' sensitive information and online habits.

The Drop Tab Browser Hijacker Makes Unauthorized Changes

Browser hijackers are notorious for tampering with essential browser settings , including the homepage, default search engine, and new tab page. Drop Tab is no exception, as it engages in similar intrusive activities.

With Drop Tab active, any attempt to open new browser tabs or windows, as well as starting search queries from the URL bar, leads to automatic redirects to the website search.droptab.net. However, it is important to note that fake search engines usually lack the capability to generate authentic search results. As a workaround, they often redirect users to legitimate internet search sites. At the time of research, search.droptab.net was observed to redirect to the Bing search engine. However, the exact behavior and redirect destinations may vary depending on factors such as user geolocation.

Removing browser-hijacking software like Drop Tab can be challenging due to persistence-ensuring techniques often employed by such unreliable extensions. These techniques may include denying access to settings related to removal or automatically resetting any changes made by the user to eliminate the unwanted extension.

Drop Tab may also have distressing data-tracking capabilities. It may discreetly monitor users' online activities, collecting various sensitive information in the process. This targeted data may encompass visited URLs, viewed pages, searched queries, internet cookies, personally identifiable details, login credentials, financial data, and more. The data collected through such illicit means can be monetized by selling it to third-party entities for potentially nefarious purposes.

Be Aware of the Dubious Distribution Techniques Exploited by PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) and Browser Hijackers

It is crucial to be vigilant and aware of the dubious distribution techniques employed by PUPs and Browser Hijackers to protect your devices and data from potential threats. Here are some common techniques they use:

• Bundling with Freeware: PUPs and browser hijackers often hitch a ride with legitimate free software. When users download and install these free applications, the PUPs and hijackers are installed alongside without the user's knowledge or explicit consent.
•  Deceptive Installers: Some PUPs and hijackers use deceptive installers that trick users into agreeing to install additional software components. These components may be bundled with checkboxes pre-selected, leading users to unknowingly install unwanted programs.
•  Fake Updates and Downloads: PUPs and hijackers may present themselves as essential updates or downloads for popular software or plugins. Unsuspecting users may click on these fake update prompts, inadvertently installing malicious software.
•  Malvertising: PUPs and browser hijackers can be distributed through malicious advertisements (malvertising) displayed on legitimate websites. Clicking on these ads may trigger the download and installation of unwanted programs.
•  Infected Email Attachments: Some PUPs and hijackers may spread through email attachments, especially in phishing emails. Opening these attachments can trigger the installation of unwanted software.
•  Pirated Software and Torrents: PUPs and hijackers are often found in pirated software or torrents. Users seeking free versions of paid software may unknowingly download malware-infected copies.

By staying informed and employing a healthy dose of caution, you can better protect your devices and data from the deceptive distribution techniques exploited by PUPs and browser hijackers.