SearchMe Extension

While scrutinizing the SearchMe Extension application, infosec experts discovered that it operates as a browser hijacker. Once added, it changes the settings of a browser with the intention of promoting a specific address. In addition to hijacking the user's browser, the SearchMe Extension may gather various information while installed.

The SearchMe Extension Takes Over Essential Browser Settings

The SearchMe Extension is crafted to force users to visit search-me-ext.com whenever they launch their Web browser, start a new tab or input search queries via the URL bar. This is achieved by configuring search-me-ext.com as the default search engine, homepage, and new tab page within the settings of the affected browser.

Upon entering a search query, search-me-ext.com redirects users to bing.com, a recognized and legitimate search engine. This redirection indicates that users ultimately receive search results from Bing instead of search-me-ext.com. Consequently, search-me-ext.com is classified as a fake search engine.

Fake search engines raise numerous concerns. Firstly, they often employ deceptive strategies to entice users, including mimicking the appearance of authentic search engines. Secondly, these fake search engines may prioritize displaying sponsored or unsafe content in search results, undermining the relevance and credibility of the information provided.

Furthermore, counterfeit search engines may unlawfully collect user data, posing significant privacy risks. They may also direct users to fraudulent websites or schemes, heightening the chances of security breaches, financial losses and other detrimental consequences. Overall, the lack of transparency, reliability, and security measures inherent in fake search engines erodes user trust and poses substantial risks to online safety.

Users Are Unlikely to Install Browser Hijackers Knowingly

Browser hijackers are often installed on users' systems without their explicit knowledge or consent, primarily due to the deceptive distribution tactics they employ. Here's how this typically occurs:

• Bundled Software: Browser hijackers are frequently bundled with freeware or shareware programs that users download from the Internet. When users install these seemingly harmless applications, they often overlook or hastily click through the installation prompts without realizing that additional software, such as a browser hijacker, is being included in the package.
•  Misleading Installers: Browser hijackers may be packaged with misleading installers that obscure or downplay the presence of additional software. Users may be presented with deceptive dialog boxes or checkboxes that make it difficult to discern whether they agree to install the hijacker.
•  Fake Updates and Downloads: Users may encounter browser hijackers while attempting to download or update legitimate software. Fraudulent websites or pop-up advertisements may mimic the appearance of trusted sources, unknowingly tricking users into downloading and installing the hijacker.
•  Social Engineering: Browser hijackers may also be distributed through clickjacking techniques or social engineering tactics. For example, users may be enticed to click on unsafe links or advertisements that promise enticing offers or rewards, only to trigger the installation of a browser hijacker inadvertently.

Overall, browser hijackers rely on users' lack of awareness and vigilance during the installation process to infiltrate their systems. By employing deceptive distribution tactics and exploiting vulnerabilities, hijackers can surreptitiously gain access to users' browsers and modify their settings for unsafe purposes. Therefore, it's essential for users to exercise caution when downloading software from the Internet and to remain vigilant against suspicious links and pop-ups.