ISEEK Browser Extension

Users must protect their devices from intrusive and untrustworthy software. Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) are often disguised as legitimate applications but can compromise your device's performance and security. Among these PUPs, browser hijackers are particularly notorious for altering browser settings without user consent, leading to various online threats. One such example is the ISEEK browser extension.

Unveiling ISEEK: A Rogue Browser Hijacker

ISEEK is a browser extension identified by cybersecurity researchers as a browser hijacker. It alters the browser's default settings to promote a fake search engine, findflarex.com, which subsequently redirects to boyu.com.tr. This manipulation is intended to control users' browsing experience and expose them to deceptive ads and unreliable websites.

How ISEEK Hijacks Your Browser

Once installed, ISEEK changes the default search engine, homepage, and new tab pages to findflarex.com. This fake search engine directs users to boyu.com.tr, which provides search results laden with potentially harmful ads and links. Users may unknowingly land on phishing sites, fraudulent pages or websites hosting unsafe software.

Questionable Distribution Tactics of PUPs and Browser Hijackers

One common tactic used by PUPs like ISEEK is deceptive bundling. These applications are often bundled with actual software and installed without the user's explicit consent. During the installation of free software, users might overlook the inclusion of additional programs, leading to the inadvertent installation of PUPs.

Fake Updates and Downloads

PUPs can also be distributed through fake updates and downloads. Users may encounter pop-ups or advertisements claiming that their software is outdated or their device is infected, prompting them to download a supposed update or security tool. These downloads often contain PUPs or other unsafe software.

Misleading Advertisements

Browser hijackers are frequently promoted through misleading advertisements. These advertisements might appear on legitimate websites, encouraging users to click on enticing offers or fake alerts. Clicking on these advertisements can initiate the download and installation of browser hijackers like ISEEK.

Misuse of Legitimate Features

ISEEK can activate the 'Managed by your organization' feature in Chrome browsers. This feature is typically used by organizations to enforce policies and manage extensions. However, when misused by rogue extensions like ISEEK, it allows the hijacker to make unauthorized changes, such as adding or removing extensions, blocking access to specific websites, and more

Privacy Risks and Data Collection

Extensions like ISEEK may be designed to collect various types of data from affected browsers. This can include browsing history, search queries, IP addresses, geolocation data, and even potentially sensitive information like usernames and passwords. This data can be sold to third parties or misused in other ways, posing significant privacy risks to users.

Protecting Yourself from Browser Hijackers

To avoid potential risks, users are strongly advised against adding the ISEEK extension or any similar suspicious extensions to their browsers. Always download extensions from reputable sources and carefully review the permissions they request.

• Regular Security Scans: Perform regular security scans using reputable anti-malware software to detect and remove PUPs and other unsafe software from your device. Keeping your software updated can also help protect against vulnerabilities exploited by browser hijackers.
• Managing Browser Settings: Regularly review and manage your browser settings to ensure no unauthorized changes have been made. Disable any extensions you do not recognize or trust, and reset your browser settings if you suspect a hijacker has compromised them.

Conclusion: Stay Informed, Stay Secure

Understanding the tactics used by rogue browser extensions like ISEEK is essential for maintaining your online security. By staying informed about the threats posed by PUPs and browser hijackers, you can take proactive steps to protect your devices and personal information. Stay vigilant, and always exercise caution when installing software or extensions on your devices.