Triathlon Gurus Browser Extension
During their examination of the Triathlon Gurus application, it was found that instead of its advertised features, the app is primarily focused on functioning as a browser hijacker. Specifically, the application promotes a fake search engine known as privatesearchqry.com. This search engine is not legitimate, and it provides search results generated by another search engine. The promotion of browser hijackers like the Triathlon Gurus application, often occurs through deceptive channels.
The Triathlon Gurus may Cause Unwanted Redirects to Promoted Websites
The Triathlon Gurus browser extension appears to be designed to promote the privatesearchqry.com address by hijacking users' web browsers. In practice, this means that the application will take over several vital browser settings - typically the new tab pag, default search engine, homepage and switch them to now open the promoted address. When a user attempts to search using privatesearchqry.com, the engine will not deliver unique results provided by itself. Instead, it will cause further redirects and display results taken from the legitimate Bing engine.
Despite often giving the appearance of being secure, fake search engines like privatesearchqry.com may modify the shown search results to include sponsored content or advertisements. Furthermore, many browser hijackers like Triathlon Gurus are capable of collecting user data such as browsing activity, search queries, and other personal information.
This harvested data could be used for targeted advertising or other fraudulent purposes. It is therefore recommended that users avoid using privatesearchqry.com and remove Triathlon Gurus from their computers to prevent potential risks to their privacy and security.
How do Browser Hijackers and PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) Get Installed on Users' Devices?
Browser hijackers and PUPs can get installed on users' devices through various methods. One common method is through software bundling, where they are included as optional or hidden components in legitimate software downloads. Users may unwittingly agree to install these additional programs by not carefully reading the installation prompts or terms and conditions.
Another way is through deceptive advertising, where misleading pop-up ads or notifications trick users into installing the hijacker or PUP. These ads may falsely claim to offer software updates, security scans, or free downloads, but actually lead to the installation of unwanted programs.
Browser hijackers and PUPs may also be distributed through spam emails, fake software updates, and social engineering tactics such as phishing. Users should always be very cautious when downloading and installing software, especially from untrusted sources, and regularly scan their devices for any unwanted or suspicious programs.
