Oceans - New Tab Rogue Browser Extension
Upon examination of the Oceans - New Tab browser extension, our team uncovered that it takes control of a web browser by altering its settings. This change is intended to promote a phony search engine called oceansnewtab.com, causing us to classify Oceans - New Tab as a browser hijacker.
The Oceans - New Tab extension alters web browser settings, causing oceansnewtab.com to become the default search engine, homepage, and new tab page. This forces users to use a fake search engine that shows results sourced from Bing (oceansnewtab.com redirects users to bing.com).
While Bing's search results are legitimate, it is crucial to note that using shady and counterfeit search engines may result in visiting unreliable sites, promoting scams, harmful software, and other risks.
Furthermore, browser hijackers such as Oceans - New Tab may obtain various types of data from the compromised browser, including search queries, browsing history, geolocation, operating system and browser version, and other data. In some instances, sensitive information like login credentials and credit card details may also be jeopardized.
To prevent data theft and other security concerns, it is recommended that browser hijackers are removed as soon as possible.
How Can a Rogue Extension Replace Your Browser's Search Engine?
A rogue extension can replace a browser's search engine by manipulating the browser's settings. Once the extension is installed, it modifies the default settings to promote a fake search engine or a third-party search engine that generates revenue for the developers. For instance, the Oceans - New Tab browser extension can hijack a web browser by altering its settings and setting the fake search engine "oceansnewtab.com" as the default search engine, homepage, and new tab page. As a result, users are redirected to this fake search engine, which displays search results sourced from Bing.
However, using fake search engines or shady search engines can lead to potential harm, such as visiting dubious sites, promoting scams, and downloading harmful applications. Additionally, browser hijackers like Oceans - New Tab can collect sensitive information, including browsing history, search queries, and login credentials. Therefore, it's essential to remove browser hijackers immediately to prevent data theft and other security issues.
