Beach Wallpaper Browser Extension
The Beach Wallpaper extension, which claims to provide beach-themed browser wallpapers, has been identified as an unwanted add-on. Upon investigation, we found that it operates as a browser hijacker. This extension alters browser settings to endorse the fake search engine find.nmywebsrc.com by means of redirection.
This type of browser hijacking software changes essential browser elements such as homepage, default search engine, and new tab/windows to promote specific websites. The Beach Wallpaper extension follows a similar pattern. Consequently, once this extension is installed, attempts to open new browser tabs/windows or perform searches using the URL bar will lead to automatic redirections to the find.nmywebsrc.com website.
Fake search engines like find.nmywebsrc.com generally lack the capability to generate authentic search results, so they often redirect users to legitimate search engines. During our investigation, find.nmywebsrc.com redirected to the Bing search engine (bing.com). However, it's important to note that redirection destinations could vary based on factors like the user's geographical location.
In numerous instances, browser hijackers utilize tactics to persistently control browsers and prevent users from reversing the changes. Furthermore, it's likely that Beach Wallpaper possesses the ability to track user data.
The information collected may encompass a range of data such as visited URLs, viewed webpages, entered search queries, internet cookies, login credentials, personally identifiable details, financial information, and more. This gathered data could potentially be shared with or sold to third parties, including cybercriminals.
What Are Rogue Browser Extensions and Browser Hijackers?
Rogue browser extensions and browser hijackers are types of potentially unwanted software that manipulate web browsers and users' online experiences for malicious purposes. They both aim to deceive users, generate revenue for their creators, or compromise users' security and privacy. Here's what each of these terms means:
Rogue Browser Extensions:
Rogue browser extensions are software components that users can install to add extra features or functionalities to their web browsers. However, these extensions have hidden malicious intentions. Once installed, they can perform actions that the user did not intend or authorize. This could include activities such as collecting sensitive user information, injecting unwanted advertisements, redirecting users to malicious websites, or even taking control of the browser and altering its behavior.
These extensions are often distributed through deceptive tactics, such as fake download links, misleading advertisements, or bundled with legitimate software. Once installed, they can be difficult to remove, as they may modify browser settings and persistently interfere with the user's browsing experience.
Browser Hijackers:
Browser hijackers are a specific type of rogue software that focuses on modifying a user's browser settings without their consent. These modifications can include changes to the default homepage, default search engine, and new tab settings. Browser hijackers often replace these settings with URLs of their choosing, which can lead to unintended consequences such as constant redirects, the display of unwanted ads, and exposure to potentially harmful websites.
Browser hijackers are typically designed to generate revenue for their creators through various means, such as driving traffic to specific websites (which earns them ad revenue) or by promoting fake search engines that display ads or track users' search behavior. They can also be difficult to uninstall, as they often use techniques to prevent users from reverting their browser settings back to normal.
