Rogue Internet Explorer/Firefox Plugin Uses Trojan.Tracur.C & Trojan.JS.Redirector.KY to Infect PC Users

Malware infections that latch on to a particular Internet browser are certainly nothing new in the world of computer security. However, a recent malware infection not only latches on to one Internet browser, it also installs malware that latches onto your other favorite application for browsing the Internet. Specifically, a browser helper object that has been dubbed Trojan.Tracur.C by several security programs and acts as a fake plug-in for Internet Explorer. After installing, it then installs a malicious Firefox add-on, Trojan.JS.Redirector.KY, which has spyware components as well as browser hijacking capabilities.

A common debate about computer security is about which Internet browser is more secure, with Mozilla Firefox aficionados being some of the most vocal supporters of their favorite browser. It seems that criminals make no such distinctions and are happy to create malware to cater to both crowds. The fact is that Firefox is well known for having a huge library of add-on components with which one can customize its browser in endless ways. Many times before, this huge library of third-party add-on creations has proved to be Firefox's main security weakness.

The original malware problem on Internet Explorer is known to be associated with a fake update for Flash plugin. This is why it is never a good idea to download your updates and software from third-party websites. All upgrades, updates, and new programs should only be downloaded from the manufacturer's website directly. Of course, the so-called Flash plugin update is really a malicious browser helper object in the form of a Trojan. Once installed, this Trojan is designed to monitor Internet traffic, spy on a victim's Internet activity, and, when it detects that the victim is visiting a search engine, it replaces the top link in the search results with a link to a malicious website (much like popular browser hijackers such as the Google Redirect Virus.)

However, as part of its installation process, this browser helper object also casually drops off an add-on for Firefox. This add-on also has browser hijacking components. However, its main purpose is also to spy on a computer user's activity and inject malicious code into certain Web pages.

So, in this case at least, neither one of the two most popular Internet browser really comes out on top. Let us hope that this trend of cross-browser pollination does not continue. Each one of us can do our part to halt the spread of malware such as this one. Remember, keep your security software updated, scan your computer system periodically, use safe passwords, and be smart and safe when you browser the Internet.