ProSearch: What It Is and How to Deal With Browser Hijackers

Understanding ProSearch

ProSearch is a browser hijacker associated with websites that rely on rogue advertising networks, such as torrenting platforms. While at first glance, it may appear harmless or even useful, ProSearch alters browser settings without explicit user consent, forcing the user to engage with fake search engines. This type of software is often bundled with other suspicious programs, which can be downloaded from scam pages or intrusive ads. The presence of ProSearch on a computer is indicative of unwanted changes in browsing habits and potential exposure to misleading content.

In most cases, ProSearch infiltrates systems via deceptive ads or misleading setups that promise legitimate content but, instead, deliver browser-hijacking software. For instance, a webpage promoting a game download may eventually lead to the installation of ProSearch, which silently adjusts the browser's configurations.

How ProSearch Hijacks Browsers

ProSearch operates by modifying critical browser settings to ensure that every new tab, search query, or homepage interaction redirects users to a promoted fake search engine. During research, ProSearch was found to promote a fraudulent search engine called findflarex.com. Unlike legitimate search engines, such as Google or Bing, findflarex.com simply redirects users to other unreliable search portals like boyu.com.tr, which generates poor-quality and deceptive search results.

The end goal of ProSearch is not to provide a better search experience but to push users into using its fake search engine, which may display irrelevant or misleading content. Some of the results might even contain risky links that could lead to scam websites, low-quality products, or other forms of online fraud.

What Do Browser Hijackers Want?

Browser hijackers like ProSearch aim to generate traffic to certain websites. By controlling the search engine or redirecting users to specific pages, they create opportunities for the operators behind these hijackers to make money, often through ad revenue or affiliate marketing schemes. These tactics help hijackers profit from users clicking on ads, visiting promoted sites, or downloading additional software.

Another key objective of browser hijackers is data collection. ProSearch and similar software may track the websites you visit, search queries you type, and even sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, and financial details. This data can be sold to third parties for marketing purposes or even abused in identity theft and other fraudulent activities.

How ProSearch Uses Persistence Mechanisms

One reason ProSearch and similar hijackers can be difficult to remove is their use of persistence mechanisms. These techniques are designed to make it hard for users to fully eliminate the hijacker from their systems. ProSearch, for example, utilizes the "Managed by your organization" feature in Google Chrome, which gives it a degree of control over the browser's settings, making it more challenging to revert back to the default configuration.

Even after an attempt to remove ProSearch, it may reappear, continuing to alter browser settings and track user behavior. This persistence is a common feature among hijackers, ensuring they remain active on an infected system as long as possible.

The Risks of Data Tracking

Another worrying aspect of ProSearch is its potential to track and collect user data. Browser hijackers like ProSearch are capable of gathering information on browsing habits, search history, and even personally identifiable details. This data can then be sold to third parties for profit, leading to privacy concerns and the risk of misuse.

In some cases, the data collected may include financial information or login credentials, which puts users at risk of fraud or identity theft. While the hijacker itself may not directly engage in these activities, selling personal data to less-than-reputable entities increases the likelihood of further harm.

How Users End Up With ProSearch

Many users unknowingly install ProSearch through a technique known as bundling. This method involves packaging the hijacker with other software, often legitimate or useful programs, making it difficult to detect during installation. Users downloading software from unverified sources, such as free file-sharing sites or torrents, are especially at risk of encountering bundled programs like ProSearch.

Additionally, intrusive ads and pop-ups on unreliable websites can lead users to install ProSearch. These ads often contain misleading information, prompting users to download software they didn't intend to, such as fake updates, bogus system cleaners, or fraudulent security programs. In some cases, users might not even realize they've installed ProSearch until they notice their browser settings have been changed.

Avoiding Browser Hijackers

Preventing browser hijackers like ProSearch from infiltrating your system starts with practicing safe browsing habits. It's important to avoid downloading software from unofficial sources and to be wary of pop-ups or ads that seem too good to be true. Always ensure you're using verified websites and official app stores for software downloads.

When installing software, it's a good idea to use custom installation options rather than the default settings. This allows you to see if any additional, unwanted programs are being bundled with the primary software and gives you the opportunity to opt out of these extras.

Removing ProSearch and Staying Safe

If ProSearch has already hijacked your browser, removing it can be tricky but not impossible. Begin by checking your browser's extensions and settings for any suspicious changes. Many modern browsers also have built-in tools or extensions that can help detect and remove browser hijackers. Additionally, a thorough system scan with reputable security software can help identify and remove ProSearch and any associated threats.

In the future, maintaining awareness of how browser hijackers work and adopting good browsing habits can help you avoid potential disruptions like ProSearch. Always stay vigilant about the software you download, and consider installing browser extensions that block pop-ups and intrusive ads to protect against these unwanted changes.