Museum Views Tab Rogue Browser Extension
During our investigation of suspicious websites, our research team came across the Museum Views Tab browser extension. After conducting a thorough analysis, we concluded that this extension is a browser hijacker. Its main objective is to promote the illegitimate search engine called museumviewstab.com.
Browser hijackers are known to modify browser settings, such as homepages, default search engines, and new tab/window URLs, to promote specific websites. The Museum Views Tab extension follows this pattern by making similar modifications. Once installed, any new browser tab/window opened or web search conducted through the URL bar will result in redirects to the museumviewstab.com website.
It is worth noting that browser hijackers often employ techniques to ensure their persistence, making it difficult for users to restore their browsers to their original settings.
Fake search engines lack the capability to provide genuine search results, so they typically redirect users to legitimate search engines. Museumviewstab.com behaves similarly and redirected to the Bing search engine (bing.com) during our research. However, it is important to mention that the specific landing page may vary depending on factors such as the user's geolocation.
Furthermore, Museum Views Tab is likely engaged in tracking users' browsing activities. Browser hijackers commonly collect various information, including visited URLs, viewed pages, search queries, usernames, passwords, personally identifiable details, credit card numbers, and more. This collected data can be sold to third parties or exploited for profit.
What Are Rogue Browser Extensions and Browser Hijackers?
Rogue browser extensions and browser hijackers are types of malicious software that target web browsers to gain control over the user's browsing experience and perform unauthorized activities. Here's a breakdown of each:
Rogue Browser Extensions: Rogue browser extensions are malicious software programs designed to appear as legitimate browser extensions or add-ons. However, their true purpose is to exploit vulnerabilities in the browser and perform harmful actions. These extensions often claim to offer useful functionalities but, in reality, they may engage in activities such as collecting sensitive user data, injecting unwanted advertisements, redirecting web traffic, or installing additional malware. Rogue browser extensions typically infiltrate a user's browser through deceptive tactics, such as misleading download links, fake software updates, or bundled installations with legitimate software.
Browser Hijackers: Browser hijackers are a specific type of rogue software that takes control of a user's web browser settings without their consent. They modify settings such as the default search engine, homepage, new tab/window URLs, and browser shortcuts. By doing so, they force users to visit certain websites, usually with malicious intent. These websites may be designed to generate revenue through deceptive advertising, promote fake search engines, collect personal information, or distribute further malware. Browser hijackers can also prevent users from reverting these settings, making it challenging to remove the hijacker from the affected browser.
Both rogue browser extensions and browser hijackers can significantly impact a user's online experience, compromise their privacy and security, and expose them to various risks. It is crucial to exercise caution when installing browser extensions, regularly update browsers and security software, and be vigilant for any unusual browser behavior or unauthorized modifications to browser settings.
