Outer Space Browser Extension
During our evaluation of the Outer Space application, we detected characteristics commonly associated with browser hijackers. Once installed, Outer Space modifies browser settings to promote a specific web address. In addition to browser hijacking, Outer Space has the capability to gather browsing-related data and other relevant information.
Outer Space enacts browser hijacking by setting outerspace-ext.com as the homepage, default search engine, and new tab page. This extension compels users to visit outerspace-ext.com upon opening their browser or new tab and conducting searches using the hijacked browser. Our investigation revealed that outerspace-ext.com is a counterfeit search engine.
When users input a search query, they are redirected from outerspace-ext.com to bing.com. Consequently, rather than receiving search results from outerspace-ext.com, users are provided with results from a legitimate search engine, Bing. While search results from Bing can be deemed reliable, it is advisable to refrain from engaging with search engines like outerspace-ext.com.
The credibility and dependability of search results obtained through counterfeit search engines may be questionable, giving rise to doubts regarding the accuracy and legitimacy of the information provided. Furthermore, users may be exposed to various online threats, including malware infections, phishing scams, or breaches of data security.
Moreover, interacting with lesser-known or suspicious search engines may compromise user privacy and data security. These platforms might surreptitiously collect and track user information without consent, resulting in privacy violations and potential misuse of personal data. To mitigate these risks, it is recommended to utilize reputable and well-established search engines.
What Are Fake Search Engines?
Fake search engines are websites or browser extensions that mimic legitimate search engines but provide misleading or manipulated search results. These deceptive platforms often employ tactics to trick users into using them for web searches, usually with the intention of generating revenue through advertisements or by collecting user data. Here are some characteristics of fake search engines:
Misleading Appearance: Fake search engines may resemble popular search engines like Google, Bing, or Yahoo in appearance to deceive users into thinking they are legitimate. They often have a simple interface and may feature a search bar and logo similar to well-known search engines.
Manipulated Search Results: Instead of providing genuine and relevant search results, fake search engines manipulate search results to promote specific websites, products, or services. These manipulated results may lead users to potentially harmful or irrelevant websites.
Unwanted Redirects: Fake search engines may redirect users to sponsored websites or advertisements when they conduct a search or click on search results. These redirects can disrupt the user experience and expose users to potentially malicious websites.
Unsolicited Browser Changes: Some fake search engines force changes to browser settings, such as the default search engine, homepage, or new tab page, without the user's consent. These changes can be difficult to reverse and may persist even after attempts to uninstall or remove the fake search engine.
Privacy Concerns: Fake search engines may collect user data, such as browsing history, search queries, and IP addresses, without the user's knowledge or consent. This data can be used for targeted advertising, profiling, or other malicious purposes, posing privacy risks to users.
