Search-Monster
Search-Monster is a browser extension that is being distributed via deceptive or untrustworthy Web pages. The application carries the typical functions found in most browser hijackers. It is designed to take control of several, important browser settings and modify them to promote a sponsored page.
Indeed, users who install the Search-Monster application will soon begin noticing that their browsers are frequently opening or redirecting to an unfamiliar address. More specifically, their browser's homepage, new tab page, and the default search engine will all be switched to now open searchmonster.net, a fake search engine.
Fake engines are not designed to conduct Web searches on their own, as they simply lack such functionality. Instead, they will further redirect the initiated search queries and take results from a different source. In this case, searchmonster.net redirects to the legitimate Bing search engine. However, users should keep in mind that some fake search engines may adjust their behavior and show results from dubious sources, based on specific factors - user's IP address, geolocation, browser type, etc.
Having adware, browser hijackers, or PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) installed on their devices also could mean that users are risking having their browsing activities monitored. These intrusive applications are often capable of data collection with all harvested information being exfiltrated to their operators.
