Goals Tracker Browser Extension
In our assessment of the Goals Tracker browser extension, we observed its intention to promote a fraudulent search engine through the manipulation of web browser settings, commonly known as browser hijacking. It is crucial to highlight that browser hijackers, such as Goals Tracker, are typically promoted using dubious methods.
Goals Tracker takes control of the default search engine, homepage, and new tab page settings, substituting them with set.goalstracker.net. Consequently, users attempting searches through their browser's search bar or opening a new tab or homepage find themselves directed to set.goalstracker.net.
Set.goalstracker.net is identified as a deceptive (fake) search engine primarily due to its misleading behavior, such as redirecting users to bing.com. When users initiate a search on set.goalstracker.net, the search results do not originate from set.goalstracker.net. Instead, users are promptly redirected to bing.com, a reputable search engine owned by Microsoft.
Search engines like set.goalstracker.net are unreliable as they often masquerade as authentic and fully functional search tools, creating an impression of distinctive features and services for users. However, their primary objective is to guide user searches toward other search engines (both reputable and questionable) or websites.
Furthermore, many fake search engines employ unethical practices to generate income, including the unauthorized collection and sale of user data. This compromises user privacy and raises significant concerns about data security. Given these reasons, exercising caution and skepticism when encountering search engines like set.goalstracker.net is crucial.
How Can Browser Hijackers Alter Your Browsing Experience?
Browser hijackers can significantly impact your browsing experience by making unauthorized changes to your browser settings and introducing disruptive elements. Here are ways in which browser hijackers can alter your browsing experience:
Homepage Modification:
Browser hijackers often change your browser's homepage to a predefined website without your consent. This can redirect you to a site you didn't choose and disrupt your usual starting point.
Default Search Engine Changes:
Hijackers can alter your default search engine, redirecting your searches to a specific search provider that may not be of your choosing. This can affect the quality of search results and lead to unwanted websites.
New Tab Page Replacement:
Browser hijackers may replace your default new tab page with a different one, displaying ads, sponsored content, or other unwanted elements every time you open a new tab.
Unwanted Browser Extensions:
Some hijackers install browser extensions or add-ons without your permission. These extensions can modify your browsing experience, inject ads into web pages, and collect your browsing data.
Increased Display of Ads:
Browser hijackers are often associated with an influx of intrusive advertisements. These ads can appear as pop-ups, banners, in-text ads, or even take over entire pages, making your browsing experience frustrating and disruptive.
Browser Redirects:
Hijackers may redirect your browser to unfamiliar websites, potentially exposing you to phishing sites, scam pages, or other malicious content. This can happen when you enter a URL directly or initiate a search.
