Sqoo Search Engine Browser Extension

The browser extension known as the Sqoo search engine is categorized as a browser hijacker. This software alters browser settings to create redirects that pass through the fake search engines sharesceral.uno and sqoo.co. Moreover, this browser extension monitors the browsing activity of users.

Browser Hijackers Like Sqoo Search Engine could Introduce Numerous Privacy Issues

The Sqoo extension assigns sharesceral.uno as the browsers' default search engine, homepage, and new tab page. As a result, whenever users open a new browser tab or initiate a search query from the URL bar, it will result in redirects to the sharesceral.uno website.

In turn, sharesceral.uno promptly starts another redirect to sqoo.co, where the entered query was automatically populated into the page's search input field. After clicking the search icon, sqoo.co redirects the user's search to the legitimate Yahoo search engine. It's important to note that the specific redirect chain may vary due to factors such as user geolocation.

Users should be aware that many browser hijackers utilize persistence-ensuring techniques to make its removal more challenging, thereby preventing users from fully restoring their browsers to their original state.

The Sqoo search engine is also likely to possess data-tracking functionalities. It could be able to collect various types of information, including visited URLs, viewed webpages, searched queries, internet cookies, personally identifiable details, account login credentials, financial data, and more. This gathered information can be shared with or sold to third parties.

PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) and Browser Hijacker are Rarely Installed Intentionally

Browser hijackers and adware are often distributed through questionable tactics that exploit vulnerabilities and deceive users. These tactics aim to trick users into unknowingly installing these unwanted software on their devices. Here are some common methods used:

• Software Bundling: Browser hijackers and adware are frequently bundled with legitimate software downloads. Users may unknowingly install them alongside the desired software by hastily going through the installation process or not paying attention to the bundled offers. This deceptive technique allows the hijackers and adware to piggyback onto popular or trusted software, increasing the chances of their installation.
• Misleading Advertising: Questionable online advertisements, commonly found on sketchy websites or in pop-up ads, may deceive users into clicking on them. These ads may mimic system alerts, claiming that the user's device is infected or that they need to update their software. By clicking on these ads, users can unknowingly trigger the download and installation of browser hijackers or adware.
• Fake Software Updates: Browser hijackers and adware may be disguised as legitimate software updates or plugins. Users may encounter pop-up notifications while browsing, prompting them to update their software to access certain content or enhance their browsing experience. However, these notifications may actually lead to the download and installation of malicious software instead.
• Unsafety Websites and Downloads: Users may unintentionally land on malicious websites or click on malicious links that initiate the download of browser hijackers or adware. These websites often employ social engineering techniques to deceive users into thinking they are accessing legitimate content or software, while in reality, they are downloading unwanted programs.
• File-Sharing Platforms: P2P (peer-to-peer) file-sharing platforms are notorious for distributing software bundled with browser hijackers and adware. When users download files from these platforms, they may unknowingly install additional software alongside the desired file, leading to unwanted modifications of their browser settings.

While browsing the Internet, PC users should b extra cautious downloading software, or clicking on ads. Being vigilant during the installation process, avoiding suspicious websites, and using reputable sources for software downloads can help mitigate the risk of browser hijackers and adware infiltrating their devices.