MediaScape - New Tab Browser Extension
During our investigation of suspicious websites, our research team encountered the MediaScape - New Tab browser extension. This extension claims to offer browser wallpapers.
After a thorough analysis of this software, we determined that it functions as a browser hijacker. MediaScape - New Tab modifies browser settings with the intention of promoting the tubeextension1.com fake search engine through redirects.
In our testing, MediaScape - New Tab set tubeextension1.com as the default search engine, homepage, and new tab/window URL within the browser. Consequently, any attempts to enter search queries into the URL bar or open new tabs/windows led to redirects to the tubeextension1.com website.
Typically, fake search engines lack the capability to provide authentic search results, hence they redirect users to legitimate Internet search platforms. Tubeextension1.com follows suit by redirecting users to the Google search engine (google.com). It's important to note that this redirection might differ based on factors such as user location.
It's noteworthy that browser-hijacking software could potentially block access to settings related to removal or revert user-made changes, which can complicate its eradication process.
MediaScape - New Tab also engages in the surveillance of users' browsing activities. Browser hijackers typically target various types of data including visited URLs, viewed webpages, search queries, Internet cookies, login credentials, financial data, and more. This gathered information may then be sold to third parties for monetization purposes.
How Can Browser Hijackers Alter Your Browsing Experience?
Browser hijackers can significantly alter your browsing experience by making unauthorized changes to your web browser settings and redirecting you to unwanted websites. Here's how they can impact your browsing:
- Homepage Modification: Browser hijackers often change your browser's homepage to a different website without your consent. This means that every time you open your browser, you are greeted with an unfamiliar or unwanted webpage.
- New Tab Settings: They can alter your browser's new tab settings, causing new tabs to open with a specific webpage you didn't choose. This can disrupt your usual browsing routine.
- Search Engine Replacement: Browser hijackers may replace your default search engine with a fake or lesser-known search engine. When you perform searches in your browser's address bar, you are directed to the hijacker's preferred search engine, which could provide manipulated or irrelevant search results.
- Search Result Redirects: When you conduct a search, browser hijackers can manipulate the search results to include sponsored links or ads that generate revenue for the hijacker. Clicking on these links may lead you to websites you didn't intend to visit.
- Pop-Up Ads and Notifications: Browser hijackers often bombard you with intrusive pop-up ads, banners, and notifications. These ads can be annoying, disruptive, and potentially lead you to malicious websites.
- Slow Performance: Browser hijackers may consume system resources, leading to slower browsing speeds and overall performance degradation.
- Unauthorized Extensions: Some browser hijackers install additional browser extensions or add-ons without your consent. These extensions can further alter your browsing behavior, display ads, or track your online activities.
- Tracking and Privacy Concerns: Browser hijackers might track your browsing habits, search queries, and other online activities to collect data about you. This data can be used for targeted advertising or even sold to third parties, compromising your online privacy.
