Sticky Notes Browser Hijacker
The Sticky Notes is an application that functions as a browser hijacker. It takes over the user's Web browser by changing its settings to promote finddbest.com, a fake search engine. This application is not typically added to browsers intentionally. Instead, these PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) are distributed via underhanded methods - a deceptive page, in this case.
Once installed, the Sticky Notes can cause various issues with the browser, such as redirecting users to unwanted websites or displaying intrusive advertisements. It can also slow down the computer's performance and interfere with other applications running on the system. Additionally, it may collect personal information from users without their knowledge or consent.
The Sticky Notes Description
The Sticky Notes sets browsers' search engine, homepage, and new tab page to finddbest.com. Upon closer inspection, it was revealed that this site is a fake search engine that initiates a redirect chain that ultimately leads to bing.com (via find.ssrcnav.com). Bing is a legitimate search engine, but users should keep in mind that the results shown to them may not always be from reputable sources. Such less credible search engines can lead to unsafe websites and display suspicious advertisements, which could put users at risk.
Moreover, the Sticky Notes also may collect information on Web browsing habits. This data might be sold to third parties or used for marketing activities, which can be an invasion of privacy. To safeguard yourself against such potential issues, it is best to remove the Sticky Notes from your system. This way, you can be sure that your online activities are kept secure and private.
How are PUPs Propagated?
PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) are often spread through unwanted software bundles, deceptive advertising and other online tactics. These software bundles are usually found on websites that offer free downloads of seemingly legitimate programs. However, these downloads often contain additional programs or PUPs in the form of browser hijackers, toolbars or adware. The users may not be aware of the presence of these PUPs until their computers are already infected.
Deceptive advertising is another common way that PUPs spread across the Internet. Advertisements may appear to offer legitimate services or products, but what they deliver are unsafe downloads or redirect users to sites that contain corrupted code. Some websites may even be designed to look like legitimate download sites when, in reality, they are nothing more than a platform for spreading malware and PUPs.
