Sharks Tab Browser Extension

Cybersecurity researchers stumbled upon the Sharks Tab extension while investigating suspicious websites. On the surface, this application appears to offer a seemingly innocuous service, promising to provide browser wallpapers featuring images of sharks, catering to those with an interest in such visual themes.

However, upon closer scrutiny and in-depth analysis of the software's inner workings, the researchers ascertained that it engages in covert and undesirable activities. Specifically, the Sharks Tab manipulates browser settings in a way that redirects users to the r.bsc.sien.com fake search engine. This alteration of browser settings, aimed at promoting the fake search engine through unwarranted redirects, classifies the Sharks Tab as a browser hijacker.

The Sharks Tab Browser Hijacker Performs Unauthorized Changes on Users' Browsers

The Sharks Tab, the browser extension in question, goes beyond mere cosmetic changes to a user's browsing experience. It enacts alterations that impact critical aspects of the browser, including the default search engine, homepage, and new tab pages. Notably, such browser-hijacking software frequently employs mechanisms to ensure persistence within the system, making its removal a complex and frustrating task for users. This persistence serves to impede users from easily recovering their browser settings and returning to their desired Web experience.

One hallmark of browser hijackers is their propensity to manipulate the user's browsing environment, often replacing the default search engine and homepage. The Sharks Tab, in particular, diverts users to the r.bsc.sien.com fake search engine, which is a common strategy used by such intrusive software. It is important to understand that these fake search engines, like r.bsc.sien.com, typically lack the capacity to provide genuine search results. Instead, they redirect users to legitimate Internet search engines, such as Bing. It is worth noting that the final destination of such redirects can vary based on factors like user geolocation.

Moreover, browser hijackers tend to extend their intrusive capabilities by incorporating data-tracking functionalities, which may be the case with Sharks Tab. The information under surveillance can include a wide range of user data, such as visited URLs, viewed pages, search queries, Internet cookies, usernames, passwords, personally identifiable information and even financial data. This data, once collected, may be shared with or sold to third parties, potentially raising concerns about user privacy and security.

Browser Hijackers Rely Heavily on Questionable Distribution Techniques

Browser hijackers rely heavily on questionable distribution techniques to infiltrate users' systems and manipulate their Web browsing experience. These techniques are often deceptive, coercive, and unethical. Here are some key methods used by browser hijackers:

• Bundling with Freeware: Browser hijackers are frequently bundled with free software, often unrelated to the hijacker's purpose. Users may download and install a legitimate-looking program, unaware that it contains additional, unwanted software. This bundling is typically mentioned in lengthy terms and conditions that most users do not read.
•  Deceptive Installation Wizards: During software installation, browser hijackers use misleading installation wizards. They may use pre-selected checkboxes to include additional software or settings that users do not intend to install. Users may inadvertently accept these defaults.
•  Misleading Pop-ups and Advertisements: Browser hijackers employ deceptive pop-up advertisements and notifications to convince users to install or enable them. They may claim that the user's computer is infected, that a necessary update is required, or that they've won a prize, manipulating users into taking actions they would not otherwise choose.
•  Fake Download Buttons: On questionable websites, browser hijackers may present fake download buttons. Users may click these buttons, assuming they lead to the intended download, but they instead initiate the installation of the hijacker.
•  Browser Extensions and Add-ons: Browser hijackers often disguise themselves as browser extensions or add-ons that claim to offer useful features, such as improved search functionality, better security or enhanced browsing. Users, expecting a benefit, may install these extensions unknowingly.
•  Malvertising: Browser hijackers can be distributed through fraudulent advertisements (malvertising) on legitimate websites. Users may encounter an infected ad that, when clicked, initiates the installation of the hijacker.
•  Social Engineering: Browser hijackers employ social engineering tactics to manipulate users. They might use fear, urgency, or promises of rewards to convince users to install the software. This psychological manipulation can be highly effective in tricking users.

Browser hijackers rely on these questionable distribution techniques to infiltrate systems because they often result in higher installation rates. Users who are not vigilant or aware of these tactics may inadvertently install the hijacker, leading to unwanted changes in their browser settings, an increase in advertisements and redirects, and potential privacy and security risks. Therefore, users are advised to exercise caution, thoroughly read software installation dialogs, and use reliable security software to counteract these deceptive practices.