MediaScape - New Tab Browser Extension

During an examination of suspicious websites, researchers came across an extension called 'MediaScape - New Tab.' The application offers users a convenient way to customize their browser's wallpapers. However, upon conducting a thorough analysis of this software, the experts identified it as a browser hijacker.

Indeed, the MediaScape - New Tab extension engages in modifying browser settings with the intention of promoting the fraudulent search engine called tubeextension1.com. This is achieved primarily through unwanted redirects, effectively diverting users to the mentioned fake search engine.

The MediaScape - New Tab Browser Hijacker Makes Unauthorized Changes to Users' Browsers

The MediaScape - New Tab has been observed assigning the tubeextension1.com address as the browser's default search engine, homepage, and new tab page. This means that whenever a search query is entered into the URL bar or a new browser tab is opened, it results in users being taken to the tubeextension1.com site.

Fake search engines rarely have the capability to provide genuine search results, so they often redirect users further to legitimate Internet search websites. Tubeextension1.com is no exception in this regard; it redirects users to the Google search engine. However, it is important to note that this destination could vary, as factors like the user's geolocation often influence the behavior of such fake search engines.

It also is worth highlighting that browser-hijacking software typically has the potential to block access to settings related to removal or to limit or reverse any subsequent user-initiated changes, thereby making its removal process more complex.

The MediaScape - New Tab is also likely spying on users' browsing activity. Browser hijackers typically target various types of information, including URLs visited, viewed Web pages, entered search queries, Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, financial data and more. This collected information can be monetized by the operators of the specific application by being sold to third parties or otherwise exploited for various purposes.

Users Often Do Not Realize That a Browser Hijacker or PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program) Has Been Installed

Browser hijackers and Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) employ a variety of questionable methods for their distribution, often exploiting users' vulnerabilities and lack of awareness. These tactics are designed to infiltrate systems without proper consent and then manipulate users' browsing experiences for harmful or unwanted purposes. Here are some of the common distribution methods used by these types of unsafe software:

• Bundled Software: One prevalent method is bundling, where the browser hijacker or PUP is included with seemingly legitimate software. Users may inadvertently install unwanted software while installing the desired application. This often happens when users opt for 'quick' or 'default' installation settings without carefully reviewing the terms and conditions.
•  Malicious Websites: Untrustworthy websites and torrents might host downloads that carry browser hijackers or PUPs. Unsuspecting users who download content from these sources can inadvertently introduce unsafe software onto their systems.
•  Deceptive Advertisements and Pop-ups: Fraudulent advertisements or pop-ups that prompt users to download or install certain software can lead to the installation of browser hijackers or PUPs. These ads often use persuasive language to trick users into clicking on them.
•  Fake Software Updates: Bogus software update notifications, particularly those related to popular software or plugins, can actually deliver browser hijackers or PUPs instead of legitimate updates.
•  Email Attachments: Attachments in spam emails can contain hidden browser hijackers or PUPs. Users who open these attachments might unknowingly execute the malicious software.
•  Social Engineering: Cybercriminals may use social engineering tactics, such as fake alerts claiming viruses are detected on a user's system, and then encourage users to install a supposed "anti-virus" program that is actually a browser hijacker or PUP.

To protect against these distribution methods, users should adopt cautious online behavior. This includes only downloading software from trusted sources, reading installation prompts carefully, avoiding clicking on suspicious advertisements or pop-ups, regularly updating software, and using reputable anti-malware tools to detect and prevent unwanted software installations.