Ysearcher.com
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.
| Threat Level: | 20 % (Normal) |
| Infected Computers: | 3 |
| First Seen: | February 28, 2024 |
| Last Seen: | March 1, 2024 |
Ysearcher.com is the address of a fake search engine. These pages typically cannot provide search results and redirect to legitimate Internet search websites. Fraudulent search engines are usually promoted (via forced redirects) by apps with browser hijacker capabilities. Software within this classification tends to alter browser settings. Redirects leading to Ysearcher.com have been associated with dubious apps known as Adblock for Youtube™ and Music downloader for SoundCloud™.
Table of Contents
Ysearcher.com is Promoted via Dubious Methods
Software that hijacks browsers often manipulates critical browser settings by assigning promoted sites as default search engines, homepages, and URLs for new tabs or windows. Two identified extensions named Adblock for Youtube™ and Music downloader for SoundCloud™ (with the possibility of others) have been observed endorsing the Ysearcher.com fake search engine. Interestingly, these extensions don't directly modify browsers, but once installed, any search query entered into the URL bar redirects users to ysearcher.com.
Fake search engines like ysearcher.com typically lack the capability to generate authentic search results and instead lead users to legitimate internet search websites. In some instances, ysearcher.com has been observed displaying results from the Google search engine. It's important to note that the destination of the webpage might vary, influenced by factors like user geolocation.
Additionally, browser hijackers, including the aforementioned extensions, commonly incorporate data-tracking functionalities. This means that Adblock for Youtube™ and Music downloader for SoundCloud™ may engage in collecting targeted information such as visited URLs, viewed Web pages, search queries, browser cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, and financial data. This sensitive information is susceptible to being sold to third parties or exploited for profit. Users should exercise caution to avoid the installation of such browser-hijacking extensions, thereby protecting their online privacy and security.
Browser Hijackers are Rarely Installed by Users Knowingly
Browser hijackers employ various questionable distribution tactics to sneak their installations onto users' systems. These tactics are designed to deceive users and exploit vulnerabilities in their browsing habits. Here are common methods used by browser hijackers:
- Bundled Software: Browser hijackers are often bundled with seemingly legitimate software or freeware. Users may unknowingly install the hijacker when downloading and installing another application if they do not carefully review the installation process and deselect unwanted add-ons.
- Deceptive Websites: Some browser hijackers are distributed through deceptive websites or advertisements. Users may be enticed to click on misleading advertisements promising free software, security scans, or other seemingly beneficial services. Clicking on such ads may trigger the download and installation of the hijacker.
- Fake Software Updates: Browser hijackers may disguise themselves as software updates or security patches. Users might encounter pop-up messages claiming that their browser or a related plugin requires an update. Clicking on these fake updates may lead to the installation of the hijacker.
- Malicious Email Attachments: In some cases, browser hijackers may be distributed through malicious email attachments. Users who open an infected attachment may inadvertently install the hijacker on their system.
- Social Engineering Techniques: Browser hijackers may utilize social engineering methods to trick users into installing them. This can include deceptive messages that claim to offer security enhancements, browser improvements or other features that appear beneficial.
- Unofficial Browser Extensions: Browser hijackers often disguise themselves as browser extensions, promising enhanced features or utilities. Users may inadvertently install these extensions, giving the hijacker access to browser settings.
To try to avoid the chances of falling victim to these tactics, users should be extremely cautious when downloading software, avoid clicking on suspicious ads or links, keep their software up-to-date, and use reputable anti-malware tools. Regularly reviewing browser extensions and being attentive during the installation of software can also help prevent the unintentional installation of browser hijackers.
URLs
Ysearcher.com may call the following URLs:
| ysearcher.com |
