Search2online.com
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.
| Threat Level: | 50 % (Medium) |
| Infected Computers: | 5 |
| First Seen: | February 14, 2023 |
| Last Seen: | May 3, 2023 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
Search2online.com is the URL of a fake search engine that is promoted by software classified as browser hijackers. Such intrusive applications modify the browsers of the users, causing them to be redirected to websites such as Search2online.com. Both fake search engines and browser hijackers often collect sensitive user data.
Table of Contents
Consequences of Having a Browser Hijacker Active on Your Device
Browser hijacking software works by forcibly redirecting a browser's default search engine, new tab/window URL and homepage to a different website. When the browser hijacker promoting Search2online.com is installed, all Web searches and new tabs or windows opened in the browser will automatically redirect to this website. To ensure its persistence, the software typically employs various techniques to prevent the user from restoring their browser's original settings.
While most fake search engines are unable to provide accurate search results, they will often redirect the user to popular and legitimate search engines, such as Yahoo, Bing or Google. However, Search2online.com is an exception, as it can display search results, albeit unreliable ones. Additionally, it also may display unrelated sponsored content, which could be misleading or deceptive.
Fake search engines and browser hijacking software also may collect and store personal information from the user's browsing activities, such as URLs visited, Web pages viewed, search queries, bookmarks, IP addresses, usernames/passwords and even financial information. This collected data can then be shared with or sold to third-party entities.
How to Prevent PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) from Being Installed?
Preventing the installation of Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) on a user's device requires a combination of caution and preventive measures. To reduce the risk of PUPs being installed, users should be mindful of where they are downloading software from, pay attention to software license agreements and utilize anti-malware software.
When downloading software, it is crucial to only download from reputable sources, as PUPs are often bundled with free software downloads from less trustworthy websites. Before installing any software, users should carefully read the license agreement to understand what will be installed, including any additional or bundled software.
During the installation process, users should opt for custom installation and carefully deselect any boxes that offer to install additional or bundled software. Keeping software and operating systems up-to-date also can help prevent PUPs and other malware from exploiting vulnerabilities in outdated software.
URLs
Search2online.com may call the following URLs:
| search2online.com |
