Searchtab.net

Searchtab.net is a Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP) that falls into the browser hijacking category. Searchtab.net is owned and operated by Apply Advanced Mobile Technologies Ltd. and functions as a search engine redirecting queries to Google seemingly. Out of 65 security engines on VirusTotal, one has flagged the Searchtab.net as a potential malware-laden. Like other browser hijacking programs, Searchtab.net may land on a PC as part of software bundles or drive-by downloads. Once installed, Searchtab.net may modify the browser settings and preferences, inserting additional and likely sponsored search results next to Google's. Should users happen to click on any of the sponsored links by chance, they may either get involved in a pay-per-click scheme or land on a potentially unsafe, ad-sponsored site.

Contrary to popular search engines, which only contain a search field, Searchtab.net's homepage is filled with miscellaneous articles advertising goods, services, dating sites, sports events, etc. Needless to say, these links are very likely to be there for the benefit of the search engine’s administrators. That's why clicking on any of the popular links below the search box may yield suspicious search results along with legitimate ones.

Visiting suspicious links generated by Searchtab.net may result in the user being bombarded with tons of annoying ads. Such ads may sometimes fill out the entire display, forcing users to click on one while attempting to close them, which may, in turn, redirect them to unsafe websites compromised by malware and other threats. While some browser hijackers are easy to remove, others require reputable security solutions, as well as a subsequent full scan of the entire system. Searchtab.net makes no exception, which is why it is recommended that you reset all your browsers to their factory settings following the Searchtab.net removal.