Protectio7 Browser Extension

Nowadays, cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated. Therefore, protecting your devices from intrusive and untrustworthy software is more important than ever. Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs), such as browser hijackers, pose significant risks to users by compromising online security, privacy, and the overall browsing experience. Among these threats, the Protectio7 Browser Extension has been identified as a particularly insidious browser hijacker that alters browser settings to promote dubious search engines. Understanding how these threats operate and the tactics they use to infiltrate systems is crucial for maintaining a safe and secure digital environment.

The Protectio7 Browser Extension: A Deceptive Browser Hijacker

The Protectio7 Browser Extension was uncovered during an investigation into a rogue installation setup by infosec researchers. This extension operates as a browser hijacker, with the primary function of generating redirects and monitoring users' browsing activities. Once installed, Protectio7 modifies critical browser settings, such as the default search engine, homepage, and new tab page, to redirect users to promoted websites whenever they enter a search query or open a new tab.

Redirects to Dubious Search Engines

During the analysis, it was revealed that Protectio7 promotes a fake search engine known as boyu.com.tr. Unlike legitimate search engines, boyu.com.tr produces inaccurate and potentially harmful search results, which may include sponsored, deceptive, and unsafe content. While boyu.com.tr is the primary target, Protectio7's behavior can vary based on user geolocation, leading to redirects to other untrustworthy websites as well. In some cases, the extension even detects when a Web search is conducted and generates redirects without visibly altering the browser settings, making its presence even more difficult to detect.

Persistence Tactics: Ensuring Difficult Removal

Browser hijackers like Protectio7 are notorious for their persistence, making removal a challenging task. Protectio7 employs the "Managed by your organization" feature in Google Chrome, a technique commonly used by malware to prevent users from restoring their browser settings. This tactic ensures that the hijacker remains installed and operational, continuing to redirect users and compromise their browsing experience.

Data Tracking and Privacy Concerns

In addition to altering browser settings, Protectio7 is equipped with data-tracking capabilities, a common feature of browser hijackers. This extension can monitor and collect a wide range of sensitive information, including URLs visited, pages viewed, search queries entered, Internet cookies, account login credentials, personally identifiable information (PII) and financial data. The collected information is highly valuable and can be monetized through sale to third parties, posing significant privacy and security risks. Users with Protectio7 installed are at risk of having their sensitive data exposed, leading to potential financial losses and identity theft.

Questionable Distribution Tactics: How PUPs and Browser Hijackers Infiltrate Devices

Browser hijackers like Protectio7 often rely on deceptive and aggressive distribution tactics to infiltrate users' devices. Understanding these tactics can help users avoid inadvertently installing such malicious software.

• Software Bundling: One of the most common methods for distributing PUPs like Protectio7 is through software bundling. This technique involves packaging the hijacker with legitimate software, often as an optional component. During installation, users may be prompted to accept the additional software, usually through pre-selected checkboxes or vague prompts. If users proceed with the default installation settings, they unknowingly install the hijacker alongside the desired application.
• Fake Software Updates: Another common tactic is the use of fake software update notifications. These deceptive pop-ups appear while browsing, claiming that the user's browser or a critical plugin needs to be updated. However, instead of providing a legitimate update, these prompts download and install the Protectio7 hijacker, often without the user's knowledge.
• Malvertising: Malvertising, or malicious advertising, is also a popular distribution method. Cybercriminals purchase ad space on legitimate websites and display ads that, when clicked, initiate the download of the Protectio7 hijacker. These advertisements are often disguised as legitimate offers or alerts, tricking users into clicking and, thereby, unknowingly downloading the hijacker.

Conclusion: The Risks of Browser Hijackers

The Protectio7 Browser Extension is not just an annoyance—it's a significant threat that can compromise your system's security, violate your privacy, and lead to serious financial and personal consequences. By understanding how browser hijackers like Protectio7 operate and the deceptive tactics they use to infiltrate systems, users can take proactive steps to protect their devices. Vigilance in downloading software, avoiding suspicious ads and pop-ups, and regularly reviewing browser settings can help prevent the installation of intrusive PUPs and ensure a safer online experience.