Sticky Note Board Extension
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.
| Ranking: | 4,782 |
| Threat Level: | 20 % (Normal) |
| Infected Computers: | 163 |
| First Seen: | May 4, 2023 |
| Last Seen: | September 28, 2023 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
After conducting an investigation into the Sticky Note Board Extension, it was discovered that this extension was developed for Web browsers with the intention of promoting a fake search engine called search.notesticky-extension.com. To achieve this, the extension seizes control of the several important browser settings. Applications that operate in a manner similar to the Sticky Note Board Extension are classified by infosec researchers as browser hijackers.
Browser Hijackers and PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) could Cause Privacy Risks
The Sticky Notes Board Extension is marketed as a versatile application that can be used for various purposes, such as facilitating easier analysis processes, brainstorming, and organizing and mapping out a roadmap. However, after further investigation, it has been revealed that this app is a browser hijacker that takes control of multiple browser settings, including the homepage, the default search engine and the new tab page.
The Sticky Notes Board Extension hijacks the browser and redirects users to a fake search engine - search.notesticky-extension.com, which displays search results taken from the legitimate Bing search engine. Users should keep in mind that using fake search engines could mean that their search queries are being monitored. In addition, browser hijackers and PUPs are infamous for collecting various browsing or even personal information, which could put users' privacy and security at risk.
Therefore, it is strongly advised that users avoid using fake and disreputable search engines and stick to trustworthy search engines.
Users Rarely Install Browser Hijackers and PUPs Intentionally
The distribution of PUPs and browser hijackers generally involves deceptive tactics that trick users into downloading and installing them without their knowledge or consent. These tactics may include bundling the PUPs or browser hijackers with legitimate software that users intentionally download and install, such as free software or updates. They may also involve disguising the PUPs or browser hijackers as security tools, browser extensions, or system optimization tools that users may be tempted to download and install.
Other tactics include the use of misleading ads or pop-ups that encourage users to download and install the PUP or browser hijacker by making false claims about its features or benefits. Some PUPs and browser hijackers may also be distributed through malicious websites or spam emails that contain links to download and install them.
Once installed, PUPs and browser hijackers may modify browser settings or install additional software without users' consent, leading to unwanted changes in browser behavior and potentially exposing users to security risks.
