Search-it-now.com

During an analysis of search-it-now.com, infosec researchers found that it operates as a fake search engine. It is worth noting that sites like search-it-now.com are often promoted via browser hijackers that change important settings of users' web browsers. Another notable detail is that this fake search engine is identical to searchmarquis.com.

Search-it-now.com may ReplacFundamental Browser Settings 

Upon testing search-it-now.com, researchers discovered that it initiates a series of redirects, forming what is known as a redirect chain. When users input a search query, search-it-now.com redirects them through several intermediary websites, including search-location.com, lisumanagerine.club, and extrasearches.club before ultimately landing on Bing.com, a legitimate search engine, to deliver search results.

This behavior categorizes search-it-now.com as a fake search engine since it does not generate its own search results. Fake search engines often engage in data collection, including harvesting user browsing habits, search queries, and personal information, for potentially unsafe purposes. Additionally, they may redirect users to fraudulent websites hosting malware, phishing tactics or other harmful content.

Furthermore, fake search engines like search-it-now.com may present deceptive search results aimed at promoting tactics, counterfeit products or fraudulent services. This poses risks such as financial losses, identity theft, or other detrimental consequences. Another reason to avoid fake search engines is their association with browser hijackers.

Browser hijackers have the ability to alter browser settings, such as the default search engine, homepage, or new tab pages, redirecting users to fake or untrustworthy search engines. Moreover, these intrusive applications may prevent users from reverting to their previous browser settings, exacerbating the impact of their interference.

PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) and Browser Hijackers Usually Exploit Shady Tactics for Their Distribution

PUPs and browser hijackers often exploit various shady tactics for their distribution, targeting unsuspecting users to infiltrate their systems. Here are some common methods they use:

1. Bundling with Free Software
2. Technique: PUPs and browser hijackers are frequently bundled with legitimate free software. When users download and install the needed software, the PUPs or hijackers are installed alongside it.
3. User Impact: Users often overlook the additional programs being installed because they typically skip through the installation process without carefully reading the terms and conditions or unchecking optional installations.
4. Deceptive Advertisements
5. Technique: Shady advertisements on websites can mislead users into downloading PUPs or hijackers. These ads often appear as fake system alerts, software updates or enticing offers.
6. User Impact: Clicking on these deceptive ads can trigger automatic downloads or redirect users to sites that prompt the installation of unwanted programs.
7. Fake Download Buttons
8. Technique: Rogue websites may feature multiple download buttons, some of which lead to PUPs or hijackers instead of the intended software.
9. User Impact: Users intending to download legitimate software might inadvertently click on a fake download button, resulting in the installation of unwanted programs.
10. Phishing Emails
11. Technique: Emails that appear to be from reputable sources can contain links or attachments that lead to the installation of PUPs or hijackers.
12. User Impact: Users who click on these links or open the attachments may unknowingly install malicious software on their devices.
13. Misleading Pop-Ups
14. Technique: Pop-up advertisements on dubious websites can falsely claim that the user's system is at risk and prompt them to download software to fix the issue, which is actually a PUP or hijacker.
15. User Impact: Users concerned about their system's security may follow these prompts and install unwanted software.
16. Social Engineering Tactics
17. Technique: Social engineering involves manipulating users into performing actions or divulging information. PUPs and hijackers often use persuasive language and scare tactics to convince users to install their software.
18. User Impact: Users may be tricked into thinking the software is necessary or beneficial, leading to its installation.
19. Fake Software Updates
20. Technique: Notifications about fake updates for commonly used software can trick users into downloading PUPs or hijackers.
21. User Impact: Users believing they are updating their software will instead install unwanted programs.

Prevention and Mitigation

To protect against these tactics:

• Be Cautious During Installations: Always choose the custom installation option and uncheck any additional unnecessary software.
• Use Security Software: Employ reputable anti-malware programs to detect and block PUPs and hijackers.
• Stay Informed: Be aware of common distribution tactics and educate yourself about safe browsing habits.
• Regularly Review Installed Programs: Periodically revise the list of applications installed on your machine and uninstall any that are unnecessary or suspicious.

By understanding and recognizing these distribution tactics, users can better protect themselves from inadvertently installing PUPs and browser hijackers.