Weather New Tab Browser Extension

Researchers have discovered a rogue browser extension known as the Weather New Tab. This particular software is advertised as a convenient tool for quick access to weather forecasts and related information.

Upon thorough examination of the Weather New Tab, however, it has been determined that the extension is, in fact, a browser hijacker. Its primary function involves promoting the weathernewtab.com fake search engine through redirects, leading users to deceptive search results and potentially compromising their browsing experience.

The Weather New Tab Browser Hijacker may Have Numerous Invasive Functions

The Weather New Tab, upon installation, forcefully sets weathernewtab.com as the browser's homepage, default search engine, and the URL for new tabs. Consequently, whenever users open a new browser tab or perform a web search using the URL bar, they are redirected to the weathernewtab.com website.

Browser-hijacking software, such as the Weather New Tab, often employs techniques to ensure persistence on the user's system. These techniques make the removal of the hijacker more challenging and prevent users from easily restoring their browsers to their desired settings.

The promoted weathernewtab.com website is categorized as a fake search engine. Fake search engines typically lack the capability to provide genuine search results. Instead, they redirect users to legitimate internet search websites. However, weathernewtab.com was found to generate various redirects, possibly based on factors such as users' geolocation, IP address, and more. Some of the observed redirects led to Bing, a legitimate search engine, while others redirected users to the nearbyme.io search engine. The nearbyme.io search engine is capable of providing users with results, but they are often inaccurate and may include irrelevant, sponsored, unreliable, deceptive, and potentially malicious content.

Furthermore, the Weather New Tab is likely equipped with data-tracking functionalities. The software may collect various types of user information, including browsing and search engine histories, IP addresses (geolocations), internet cookies, login credentials, personally identifiable details, and even financial-related information. This data could potentially be exploited or sold to third parties for various purposes.

Browser Hijackers and PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) Try to Hide Their Installation Via Shady Distribution Tactics

Browser hijackers and PUPs are known for attempting to conceal their installation through shady distribution tactics. These tactics are often deceptive and manipulative, aiming to trick users into unintentionally installing unwanted software on their devices. Some common distribution tactics exploited by browser hijackers and PUPs include:

• Software Bundling: Browser hijackers and PUPs often piggyback on legitimate software downloads. They are bundled with desired applications, and users may unknowingly install them without proper disclosure.
•  Fake Software Updates: Browser hijackers and PUPs may disguise themselves as software updates or security patches, prompting users to download and install them under the guise of necessary updates.
•  Freeware and File-Sharing Sites: These unwanted programs may be distributed through freeware and file-sharing platforms, exploiting users who download software from unofficial sources.
•  Malvertising: Unsafe advertisements (malvertising) may lead users to websites where browser hijackers and PUPs are disguised as legitimate software downloads.
•  Social Engineering: Cybercriminals may employ social engineering techniques, such as fake download links on social media or messaging platforms, to entice users into installing browser hijackers and PUPs.
•  Fake Browser Extensions: Some PUPs are disguised as seemingly useful browser extensions or add-ons, tricking users into installing them for added functionalities.

To protect against these shady tactics, users should exercise caution while downloading and installing programs. New software should be downloaded from reputable sources only and carefully review the installation process to avoid unwanted programs. Utilizing reliable antivirus and anti-malware software can also help detect and prevent the installation of browser hijackers and PUPs. Staying informed about potential threats and maintaining cybersecurity best practices is essential in safeguarding devices from unwanted software.