Planet Search
Threat Scorecard
EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecard
EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards are assessment reports for different malware threats which have been collected and analyzed by our research team. EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards evaluate and rank threats using several metrics including real-world and potential risk factors, trends, frequency, prevalence, and persistence. EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards are updated regularly based on our research data and metrics and are useful for a wide range of computer users, from end users seeking solutions to remove malware from their systems to security experts analyzing threats.
EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards display a variety of useful information, including:
Ranking: The ranking of a particular threat in EnigmaSoft’s Threat Database.
Severity Level: The determined severity level of an object, represented numerically, based on our risk modeling process and research, as explained in our Threat Assessment Criteria.
Infected Computers: The number of confirmed and suspected cases of a particular threat detected on infected computers as reported by SpyHunter.
See also Threat Assessment Criteria.
| Ranking: | 1,721 |
| Threat Level: | 50 % (Medium) |
| Infected Computers: | 402 |
| First Seen: | August 4, 2023 |
| Last Seen: | September 30, 2023 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
Suppose you notice that your browser's address bar searches are consistently being redirected through Planet Search. In that case, it is highly probable that your device has been affected by an unwanted browser extension or an app. These intrusive apps are known as browser hijackers because of their ability to make unauthorized changes to important browser settings. The goal of most browser hijackers is to promote a dubious webpage, typically a fake search engine like Planet Search, and divert artificial traffic towards it.
Browser Hijackers Often Make Numerous Intrusive Changes to Users' Web Browsers
Planet Search is a search engine that is promoted through the use of dubious browser hijacker apps. These unwanted software components alter the configuration of the user's Web browser, forcing it to redirect all search queries through Planet Search automatically. The affected settings may include the homepage, new tab page, and the default search engine. Subsequently, the browser's search functionality will be manipulated, causing all searches made through the URL bar to be redirected through Planet Search. This can be frustrating and disrupt the browsing experience significantly.
Browser hijackers often track users' online activities, including browsing history, search queries, clicked links, and other identifiable information. This data may be collected and used for various purposes, such as targeted advertising, profiling, or even sold to third parties. It compromises user privacy and can lead to unwanted surveillance and personalized threats.
As for Planet Search itself, it is likely that the address belongs to a fake search engine. Such fake engines do not have the necessary functionality to deliver meaningful search results to the entered search queries. Instead, they operate by further redirecting the user's search to a legitimate engine. However, the final destination may not always be trustworthy, and users could instead be shown results taken from unverified sources.
Browser Hijackers and PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) Often Try to Hide Their Installation from Users
Browser hijackers and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) employ various tactics to deceive users and mask their installations. Some common tactics used by these unwanted apps include:
- Bundling: Browser hijackers and PUPs often come bundled with legitimate software downloads. When users install desired programs from unreliable sources or through deceptive installation wizards, they unknowingly agree to install additional software alongside the intended program. The bundled software is typically disclosed in a misleading or obscure manner, making it easy for users to overlook and inadvertently install the unwanted software.
- Misleading advertisements: Browser hijackers and PUPs may use deceptive or misleading advertisements to trick users into clicking on them. These advertisements can appear as enticing offers, fake system warnings, or software updates. When users interact with these ads, they may unknowingly trigger the installation of browser hijackers or PUPs.
- Fake software updates: Browser hijackers and PUPs may disguise themselves as legitimate software updates or security patches. Users may encounter pop-up messages or notifications prompting them to update their software, but these updates actually install the unwanted software instead. This tactic preys on users' concerns for security and prompts them to take action without realizing the consequences.
- Rogue websites and downloads: Visiting questionable websites or downloading files from untrusted sources can lead to the inadvertent installation of browser hijackers and PUPs. These websites may employ techniques such as social engineering or misleading download buttons to convince users to download and install the unwanted software.
- Deceptive installation wizards: Some browser hijackers and PUPs use installation wizards that employ tricks to deceive users. For example, they may present confusing or convoluted installation steps, burying the information about additional software in lengthy terms and conditions or license agreements. Users may simply click through the installation process without carefully reviewing the information, allowing the unwanted software to be installed.
To protect against these tactics, users should exercise caution when downloading and installing software from untrusted sources, avoid clicking on suspicious ads or links, keep their browsers and security software up to date, and regularly scan their devices for potential threats. Additionally, reading and understanding the terms and conditions during software installations can help identify bundled software and prevent unwanted installations.
