'Wants access to control Safari' Browser Hijacker

Mac users that see a system prompt warning them that a certain application, 'Wants access to control Safari,' could be dealing with an intrusive browser hijacker. These annoying programs are spread via questionable tactics and are designed to monetize their presence on users' devices. Typically, the most obvious consequences of having such a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program) active on your Mac are going to be an influx of dubious advertisements and frequent redirects to untrustworthy destinations.

While the PUP is active, it may exert control over the Web browser, even preventing users from reverting some of the modified settings to their original state. Indeed, most browser hijackers change the homepage, new tab page, and the default search engine to now open a sponsored Web address, which often belongs to a fake search engine. At the same time, the adware functionality will be responsible for running an annoying ad campaign that may consist of advertisements for untrustworthy and misleading websites, fake giveaways, phishing schemes and more.

Although PUPs are not considered to be harmful to the devices they are installed on, users should keep in mind that these applications may still represent an increase in security and privacy risks. Many PUPs are capable of data-tracking and spying on the browsing activities carried out on the system. Some even collect device details or sensitive information extracted from browsers' autofill data.