Perfect New Tab Browser Extension

Infosec researchers have uncovered a rogue browser extension known as the Perfect New Tab during their investigation into deceptive websites. This particular software is advertised as a tool designed to display beautiful browser wallpapers. However, upon conducting a comprehensive examination of the Perfect New Tab, the experts confirmed that the application's true nature is that of a browser hijacker. These types of unreliable apps engage in browser settings modification. As a result of these alterations, the Perfect New Tab extension generates unwanted redirects, leading users to the fake search engine called perfectnewtab.com. Browser hijackers are considered unwanted software that manipulates browser settings without the user's consent to redirect them to specific promoted websites or search engines.

Browser Hijacker Applications Like the Perfect New Tab May Collect a Wide Range of Data

The Perfect New Tab exhibits a particularly intrusive behavior by forcefully reassigning various browser settings, including the default search engine, homepage, and new tab page, to the website perfectnewtab.com. As a result, every time users open a new browser tab or enter a search query into the URL bar, they will be redirected to perfectnewtab.com.

Browser-hijacking software like the Perfect New Tab often employs persistence-ensuring techniques to prevent users from easily restoring their browsers to their preferred settings. These tactics might include denying access to removal-related settings or undoing any changes made by the user, making it challenging for individuals to regain control of their browsers.

Additionally, illegitimate search engines like perfectnewtab.com typically lack the capability to generate legitimate search results on their own. Instead, they redirect users to genuine Internet search websites to give an appearance of legitimacy. During the analysis, it was observed that perfectnewtab.com redirects and takes results from the Bing search engine. However, such redirections may vary based on factors like user geolocation or other criteria set by the browser hijacker.

One of the most concerning aspects of the Perfect New Tab and other browser hijackers is their likely data-tracking abilities. Browser hijackers often collect a wide range of user data, including URLs visited, webpages viewed, search queries typed, internet cookies, account login credentials, personally identifiable information, and even credit card numbers. This sensitive information can be compiled and then sold to third-party entities or exploited for profit through various means.

Stay Informed about the Shady Distribution Tactics Exploited by PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) and Browser Hijackers

PUPs and browser hijackers are notorious for employing shady distribution tactics to infiltrate users' systems and browsers without their explicit consent. These tactics exploit various vulnerabilities and users' lack of awareness to maximize their reach and impact. Some of the common shady distribution tactics exploited by PUPs and browser hijackers include:

• Software Bundling: PUPs and browser hijackers are often bundled with legitimate software or freeware downloads. Users may unknowingly accept the installation of these unwanted programs while installing desired software, as the bundled components are typically hidden within the installation process.
•  Deceptive Advertisements: Shady advertisements, often disguised as system alerts or enticing offers, lead users to download PUPs or browser hijackers through deceptive links or download buttons. Users might be tricked into thinking they are getting valuable software or services.
•  Fake Software Updates: PUPs and browser hijackers may present themselves as essential software updates or security patches, prompting users to download them when in reality, they are installing unwanted and potentially harmful programs.
•  Drive-by Downloads: Some websites may contain malicious code that automatically downloads and installs PUPs or browser hijackers when users visit the site without their knowledge or consent.
•  Social Engineering Techniques: These programs may use social engineering tactics, such as fake virus alerts or urgent messages, to manipulate users into taking immediate action and installing unwanted software.

These shady distribution tactics aim to exploit users' trust and lack of awareness, making it essential for individuals to be cautious while downloading and installing software. To protect against PUPs and browser hijackers, users should stick to reputable app stores and official sources for software downloads, read user reviews and ratings before installing extensions, and be cautious when dealing with unsolicited pop-up ads or download buttons. Regularly updating security software, using ad blockers, and maintaining a proactive approach to online security can further help protect against the infiltration of PUPs and browser hijackers.\