One Click Pic Rogue Extension
During a routine examination of untrustworthy websites, our research team came across the One Click Pic browser extension. This extension is promoted as a tool that simplifies the process of downloading images from websites with a single click.
However, after a thorough evaluation of this software, we determined that it functions as adware. One Click Pic is intentionally designed to inundate users with unwanted and potentially harmful advertisements. Adware, short for advertising-supported software, carries out intrusive advertising campaigns by displaying ads across various interfaces, including visited websites and desktops.
These third-party graphical ads, including pop-ups, overlays, banners, surveys, and the like, predominantly endorse online scams, unscrupulous or harmful software, and sometimes even malware. Clicking on some of these ads can trigger scripts that initiate covert downloads or installations.
It is important to note that any legitimate products or services advertised through these advertisements are likely being promoted by individuals who exploit their affiliate programs to obtain illicit commissions.
Software falling into this category may require specific conditions to deliver intrusive ad campaigns, such as compatible browser or system specifications, user geolocation, visits to particular websites, and more. Regardless of whether One Click Pic displays advertisements or not, its presence on a device poses a security risk.
This adware-type browser extension also engages in spying on users' online activities. Data of interest may encompass visited URLs, viewed webpages, search queries, Internet cookies, usernames and passwords, personally identifiable information, financial details, and so forth. The collected data can then be sold to third parties or exploited for financial gain.
How Can Rogue Extensions Modify Your Browser Settings?
Rogue browser extensions can modify your browser settings through various tactics and techniques. These extensions are typically malicious or unwanted and can make unauthorized changes to your browser without your consent. Here's how they can achieve this:
Installation with Permissions: Some rogue extensions trick users into installing them by posing as legitimate or useful tools. During installation, they request excessive permissions, such as the ability to change browser settings, read and modify web data, or access browsing history. Users who grant these permissions unknowingly allow the extension to manipulate their browser settings.
Changing the Homepage: Rogue extensions may alter your browser's homepage to redirect you to a malicious website or a site that generates revenue for the extension developer through affiliate marketing. This change can be subtle, making it appear as if your homepage has been set to a legitimate search engine or website.
Altering the Default Search Engine: Some rogue extensions change your default search engine to one that serves ads or tracks your searches. This can result in misleading search results and invasive advertising.
Injecting Ads and Pop-ups: Rogue extensions often inject unwanted ads, pop-ups, or banners into the webpages you visit. These ads can be disruptive and potentially lead to malicious or phishing sites.
Modifying New Tab Pages: Some extensions modify the appearance and functionality of your browser's new tab page. They may display ads, links to sponsored sites, or unwanted content on the new tab page.
Redirecting Web Traffic: Some rogue extensions can redirect your web traffic to specific websites or landing pages, potentially exposing you to scams or unwanted content.
Browser Settings Lockdown: In extreme cases, rogue extensions can lock down your browser settings, preventing you from modifying them or uninstalling the extension easily. This is often done to make it more difficult for users to remove the extension.
Monitoring and Data Collection: Rogue extensions may track your browsing activity, including the websites you visit, search queries, and personal information. This data can be exploited for various purposes, including targeted advertising or selling to third parties.
