Sports Sensei
Despite its promises of offering useful features to users, the Sports Sensei browser extension has been discovered to function as a browser hijacker with the purpose of promoting a fake search engine called sportsensei.info. It's worth noting that users often download and install or add browser hijackers and PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs), in general, unintentionally.
Browser hijackers like the Sports Sensei should not be trusted as they often have the potential to disrupt users' browsing experiences, track their online activities, and promote potentially questionable websites or content. As such, users are strongly advised to exercise caution when installing browser extensions or downloading software, particularly if they are unfamiliar with the source.
The Sports Sensei Takes Control of Crucial Browser Settings
The Sports Sensei is a browser extension that modifies the configuration of the user's browser, including the homepage and search engine. This alteration aims to redirect users to sportsensei.info, a bogus search engine that, instead of producing search results on its own, ultimately redirects the users' search queries to bing.com, a legitimate search engine.
It is essential to note that users should not rely on dubious search engines such as sportsensei.info. These questionable search engines often display deceitful or harmful results and may collect sensitive user data. The gathered information may be exploited in various ways that could pose risks to the user's privacy and security.
Furthermore, it is crucial to understand that browser hijackers like Sports Sensei can make it difficult or impossible for users to restore their web browser to its previous state. When attempting to restore the original settings, a browser hijacker may undo any of the subsequent changes or prevent users from making any changes in the first place. In such cases, users must remove the browser hijacker before eliminating the fake search engine.
Overall, it is recommended that users exercise caution when downloading and installing browser extensions and carefully review their settings and configuration to avoid unwanted modifications.
PUPs and Browser Hijackers are Rarely Downloaded Intentionally
Users often fail to notice the installation of a PUP or a browser hijacker because these programs are often bundled with other software that the user intends to download or install. In other words, the user may be focused on downloading or installing a legitimate program and not realize that a PUP or browser hijacker is being installed along with it.
Furthermore, PUPs and browser hijackers often use deceptive tactics to make their installation seem more legitimate or desirable. For example, they may present themselves as useful browser add-ons or toolbars that will enhance the user's browsing experience. They may also use confusing or misleading language in their installation prompts to trick the user into agreeing to their installation.
Overall, the combination of bundling, deceptive tactics, and subtle modifications to browser behavior can make it difficult for users to notice the installation of PUPs and browser hijackers on their devices.
