Searchthatweb.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: | 20 % (Normal) |
| Infected Computers: | 28 |
| First Seen: | April 29, 2025 |
| Last Seen: | May 1, 2025 |
In the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats, users must remain alert not only to malware but also to Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs)—a category of software that, while not explicitly unsafe, may introduce significant security, privacy and performance risks. These applications often disguise themselves as useful tools but act intrusively, exploiting users' trust to take control of system settings, gather sensitive information and redirect Web traffic. One recent case involves the Searchthatweb.com fake search engine distributed through the SearchThatWeb browser extension.
Table of Contents
SearchThatWeb and Its Dubious Intentions
Searchthatweb.com poses as a legitimate search engine but lacks independent functionality. Instead, it reroutes user queries—sometimes to genuine search providers like Google, but the redirect paths may vary based on user location and system configuration. This behavior stems from its association with SearchThatWeb, a browser hijacker masquerading as a productivity-enhancing browser tool.
Once installed, this extension may forcibly assign searchthatweb.com as the default homepage, new tab page, and search engine across Web browsers. Every search or new tab action could be intercepted, sending users through unwanted redirection chains before ultimately arriving at a search engine. Such forced rerouting is not only disruptive but also a tactic used to track user behavior and display targeted or deceptive advertisements.
How PUPs Infiltrate: Deceptive Distribution Tactics
PUPs like SearchThatWeb rarely spread through transparent, user-initiated downloads. Instead, they rely on questionable distribution strategies designed to trick users into installing them:
- Bundling: This is one of the most common techniques. Legitimate software installation packages may be bundled with unwanted additions. These extra programs are often pre-selected for installation and buried within 'Advanced' or 'Custom' setup options—sections many users ignore in favor of default or 'Express' settings.
- Fake Updates & Warnings: PUPs are frequently distributed via fraudulent websites that present alarming messages, such as bogus system error alerts or fake update prompts, to trick users into downloading the extension.
- Rogue Advertisements & Redirections: Intrusive advertisements on disreputable websites may redirect users to fake download pages. Clicking on such ads could even trigger silent downloads via embedded scripts, sometimes without the user's knowledge.
- Spam Notifications & Typo-squatted URLs: Users might also encounter these extensions after visiting typo-ridden Web addresses or by enabling deceptive browser notifications that flood them with misleading prompts and links.
Even official-looking sites—like the one used to distribute SearchThatWeb—should not be assumed trustworthy without scrutiny. These fronts are crafted to instill confidence and disguise the software's true nature.
The Risks Behind the Redirects
Beyond the nuisance of unwanted redirects and homepage takeovers, browser hijackers like SearchThatWeb may actively harvest user data. This often includes:
- Browsing history and search queries
- Stored cookies and session data
- Login credentials and personally identifiable information
- Financial or transactional details
Such information could be sold to shady data brokers or exploited in phishing attacks, identity theft and financial fraud. Moreover, persistent hijackers may employ techniques to resist removal, such as modifying system policies or re-installing themselves through scheduled tasks.
Don’t Let Your Browser be Hijacked
To protect yourself from threats like SearchThatWeb, practice safe browsing and installation habits:
- Always opt for 'Advanced' installation settings and read each step carefully.
- Avoid downloading software from unverified third-party sites or peer-to-peer networks.
- Keep your browser, operating system, and security software up to date.
- Be skeptical of unsolicited messages and popup alerts pushing downloads or updates.
- Regularly audit your installed browser extensions and remove any that seem suspicious or unfamiliar.
Final Warning: Intrusive Software is a Gateway to Larger Threats
While PUPs like SearchThatWeb may appear benign, their underlying behavior and distribution methods are far from harmless. They intrude on user autonomy, compromise privacy, and pave the way for more serious infections or data theft. Staying informed and cautious is the best defense against these hidden threats.
URLs
Searchthatweb.com may call the following URLs:
| searchthatweb.com |
