QxSearch

Browser hijackers are not considered malware, so they often manage to remain on official app stores like the Chrome Store. Such is the case with the QxSearch. This is a browser hijacker family, which is propagated using various bogus browser extensions normally. The QxSearch extensions would alter the home page of the user by replacing it with a Web page, which is linked to the company that has developed the QxSearch.

Triggers and Intentional Error to Remain Undetected by the User

In a recent update of the QxSearch browser hijacker variants, it appears that the user is presented with an ‘Error’ message while installing the application. In the beginning, it was believed to be a bug, which will soon be fixed. However, it was never fixed, and malware researchers are beginning to believe that this was likely done intentionally. This supposed ‘Error’ takes place at the exact moment of the installation process when the QxSearch hijacker when it is supposed to put its icon in the menu of the browser. Since the installation process is halted at this point, the icon does not show up in the Google Chrome menu, and the user may not even realize that the QxSearch hijacker was installed. Perhaps by appearing that the installation was never completed the QxSearch hijacker will trick the user into thinking that if any changes in their browser have occurred, it had nothing to do with this application.

Promotes Websites Connected to the Company, which Produced the QxSearch Extension

The QxSearch hijacker promotes the website of the individuals who developed it, helping it generate more traffic. However, this is not all it can do. In some instances, the QxSearch extension also may request permission to modify the behavior of pages like Booking.com or popular search services like Google and Yahoo. Once the user opts to use the search module of these websites, they will likely be redirected to a different search engine, which is also linked to the company that created the QxSearch extension.

Despite the QxSearch hijacker not being threatening in its nature, it can prove to be rather irritating certainly. Be wary of what software you allow on your system and make sure you have a reputable anti-malware tool installed.