The Nature Art Browser 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: | 5,464 |
| Threat Level: | 50 % (Medium) |
| Infected Computers: | 51 |
| First Seen: | May 28, 2023 |
| Last Seen: | September 26, 2023 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
After an analysis performed by cybersecurity experts, it has been determined that The Nature Art application operates as a browser extension designed to hijack Web browsers. Its primary objective revolves around the promotion of the fake search engine asrc-withus.com by diverting artificial traffic toward it. These intrusive browser hijackers applications typically accomplish their goal by taking control and modifying several important browser settings. In addition, Nature Art potentially possesses the capability to access and collect specific browsing data.
Browser Hijacker Applications Like the Nature Art Should not be Trusted
The Nature Art application manipulates various browser settings, including the default search engine, homepage, and new tab page. By doing so, it redirects users to the basic-withus.com address, which belongs to a dubious search engine. Indeed, it has been confirmed that as-withus.com lacks the functionality to conduct web searches on its own and instead presents users with search results obtained from Bing.com, a widely recognized and reputable search engine.
Users should be informed of the inherent risks associated with engaging with questionable search engines. These search engines could easily direct users towards unreliable destinations and websites, thereby exposing them to online scams, malicious sites, PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs or even malware.
Furthermore, many browser hijackers like The Nature Art possess the capability to collect diverse forms of data. The harvested information may include users' browsing data, personal details, or sensitive account or banking credentials. The operators of the browser hijacker could exploit the obtained information for marketing purposes or sell it to third parties.
Be Mindful of the Shady Tactics Often Used in the Distribution of PUPs and Browser Hijackers
The distribution of PUPs and browser hijackers is often characterized by a range of shady tactics employed by cybercriminals. These tactics aim to deceive and manipulate users into unintentionally installing these unwanted programs, thereby compromising their devices and online experiences.
One common tactic involves bundling PUPs and browser hijackers with legitimate software or freeware. Cybercriminals take advantage of users' tendency to rush through installation processes without thoroughly reviewing the terms and conditions or the list of included software. By bundling PUPs and browser hijackers with popular or desirable software, unsuspecting users unknowingly grant permission for their installation.
Another prevalent method is misleading or deceptive advertising. Cybercriminals use deceptive techniques, such as fake system alerts, misleading download buttons, or false claims of software updates, to trick users into clicking on links or downloading unsafe files. These misleading advertisements often exploit users' trust in well-known brands or reputable websites to gain credibility and encourage engagement.
Additionally, social engineering techniques are frequently employed to persuade users into downloading PUPs or browser hijackers. This includes tactics such as fake software or security alerts, fake virus scans, or enticing offers, which create a sense of urgency or exploit users' curiosity. Through these manipulative techniques, cybercriminals exploit users' emotions and compel them to take actions that ultimately lead to the installation of unwanted programs.
Moreover, PUPs and browser hijackers often employ persistence mechanisms to maintain their presence on the infected device. They may modify browser settings, install browser extensions or add-ons, and make changes to system configurations to ensure their continuous operation and influence over the user's online activities.
Overall, the distribution of PUPs and browser hijackers involves a combination of deceptive advertising, social engineering, bundled installations, stealthy techniques, and persistence mechanisms. These shady tactics are employed to exploit users' trust, lack of attention, and vulnerability, ultimately leading to the unwanted installation of these programs and compromising the user's online experience and privacy.
