Why You Should Beware of the K Searches Browser Extension
The K Searches Browser Extension has been identified as a browser hijacker, a type of software that manipulates browser settings to promote the ksearches.com fake search engine through redirects. Upon investigation, it was found that the installer for K Searches also included other unwanted or potentially harmful software.
Once installed, K Searches designates ksearches.com as the default search engine, homepage, and new tab/window URL for the browser. This results in automatic redirects to the fake search engine whenever a new tab or search query is entered into the URL bar. Browser hijacking software often employs persistence-ensuring mechanisms, making its removal challenging and hindering users from restoring their browsers to their original settings.
What do fake search engines and browser hijackers like K Searches Browser Extension do?
Fake search engines like ksearches.com typically do not provide authentic search results and redirect users to legitimate search websites. During the investigation, it was observed that ksearches.com redirected to the Bing search engine, although this may vary based on user geolocation.
Furthermore, browser hijackers such as K Searches are known to spy on users' browsing activities. This includes tracking URLs visited, webpages viewed, search queries typed, cookies, login credentials, and other personally identifiable details. The harvested information can potentially be monetized by selling it to third parties, posing risks such as privacy issues, financial losses, and even identity theft.
The installation of K Searches on a computer often occurs through deceptive means, such as downloading an installer from deceptive webpages offering "cracked" software. Browser hijackers may also be distributed through their "official" promotional sites or bundled with other software. The risk of bundled content is heightened when downloading from untrustworthy sources and neglecting installation procedures.
How to Avoid, Stop, and Remove the K Searches Browser Extension
To avoid the installation of browser hijackers, users are advised to conduct thorough research on software before downloading, ensuring downloads are from official and verified sources. During installation, it is recommended to read terms, explore available options, use "Custom/Advanced" settings, and opt out of any additional apps, extensions, or features. Vigilance while browsing is crucial, as seemingly harmless ads can lead to dubious websites.
In the event that the K Searches Browser Extension is present on a device, users are urged to check for other suspicious software. Prevention measures include avoiding interactions with intrusive ads and immediately removing dubious applications and browser extensions. If already infected, a scan with an updated anti-malware program is recommended to automatically eliminate the browser hijacker.
