StreamSearchClub

StreamSearchClub is a browser hijacker application that tries to infiltrate users' computers via deceptive means. Such dubious programs are usually packaged alongside legitimate freeware products (so-called 'bundling') or disguised as installers/updates for other programs. The heavy reliance on misleading distribution methods classifies these apps as PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs). 

If StreamSearchClub manages to sneak itself onto the user's device, it will waste no time and take control over the installed Web browsers. Subsequently, whenever the affected browser is started, a new tab is opened, or a search is conducted via the URL tab, it would open a promoted address, typically that of a fake search engine. 

Opening their browser's settings, affected users will notice that the homepage, new tab page, and the default search engine have all been set to open the promoted address. StreamSearchClub promotes its own engine at streamsearchclub.com. 

Fake engines cannot produce results by themselves. The user's search queries are instead redirected to a legitimate engine such as Yahoo, Bing or Google. An alternative option involves redirecting to a dubious engine that can produce low-quality results that have numerous ad links injected into them. Streamsearchclub.com has been observed to redirect to such a dubious engine at searchlee.com.

Besides the annoying consequences of having a PUP present on the system, users also should be warned that these applications oftentimes also are equipped with data-harvesting capabilities. They may gather various browsing data and device details, package them, and transmit the information to a remote server.