Purrfect Tab
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: | 6,281 |
| Threat Level: | 50 % (Medium) |
| Infected Computers: | 34 |
| First Seen: | August 15, 2023 |
| Last Seen: | September 29, 2023 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
Purrfect Tab is a piece of software that masquerades as an innocent browser extension, claiming to offer feline-themed browser wallpapers. However, it has been discovered by researchers to be a browser hijacker with malicious intent. This software doesn't deliver on its promised functionality but rather manipulates your browser settings to redirect you to a dubious website called ssrcunow.com. Here's an overview of Purrfect Tab and the risks associated with it:
Table of Contents
Browser Hijacker Overview
Browser hijackers are a type of malware that forcibly changes your browser's settings, including your homepage, default search engine, and the URLs of new tabs and windows. Purrfect Tab falls into this category by redirecting users to the ssrcunow.com fake search engine. This means that any attempts to open new tabs or perform searches lead to unwanted visits to the endorsed website. Notably, fake search engines often cannot generate legitimate search results, and in the case of ssrcunow.com, it redirects users to Bing, although this can vary depending on factors like user location.
Browser hijackers are notorious for using persistence-ensuring techniques to make their removal challenging and to hinder users from regaining control of their browsers. Furthermore, Purrfect Tab likely engages in intrusive behavior, such as monitoring users' online activities, collecting sensitive information like visited websites, viewed pages, search queries, cookies, personal details, login credentials, and financial data. This data can then be exploited or sold to third parties for financial gain.
In summary, having browser-hijacking software like Purrfect Tab on your device can lead to various issues, including system infections, severe privacy breaches, financial losses, and even identity theft.
Examples of Browser Hijackers
Purrfect Tab is just one example of the many browser hijackers that exist. Others include Swift Searcher, Dragon Baby, Rapid Spell Check Extension, and MyWallPaper. It's important to note that browser hijackers often appear legitimate and may offer seemingly useful features. However, these features are typically fake or nonfunctional. Therefore, even if a piece of software appears to work as advertised, it doesn't guarantee its legitimacy or safety.
How Purrfect Tab is Installed
Purrfect Tab can be obtained from its official promotional webpage, but it is also frequently promoted on suspicious websites. Users often end up on these pages through redirects caused by mistyped URLs, rogue advertising networks, intrusive ads, spam browser notifications, or adware infections. Another distribution method is bundling, where browser hijackers are included as unwanted or malicious additions to regular software installers. Downloading from untrustworthy sources like freeware websites, Peer-to-Peer networks, and rushing through installation processes increase the risk of unintentionally allowing bundled content into your system. Intrusive advertisements can also trigger stealthy downloads and installations.
How to Avoid Browser Hijacker Installations
To protect your system from browser hijackers and other malware, it's essential to research software before downloading it and stick to official and trustworthy sources for your downloads. During installation, always read the terms, explore available options, use the "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opt out of any supplementary apps, extensions, tools, or features.
Additionally, exercise caution while browsing, as fraudulent and malicious online content can appear harmless. Be wary of intrusive ads that may redirect you to questionable websites, such as those related to gambling, scams, pornography, or adult dating. If you encounter such ads or redirects, promptly check your system and remove any suspicious applications and browser extensions or plug-ins to maintain the security and privacy of your online activities.
