What is the Safe Search Eng Browser Hijacker?
Safe Search Eng is a browser extension that takes control of your browser's search function and redirects it to an undesired search engine.
Once Safe Search Eng is installed on your computer, it becomes a browser hijacker, altering your browser's default search engine to safesearcheng.com.
Upon installation, the Safe Search Eng browser hijacker intercepts your search queries, redirecting them to safesearcheng.com, which further redirects to search result pages from search.yahoo.com. This tactic is likely employed to generate advertising revenue by utilizing Yahoo Search for displaying search results.
Indications that the Safe Search Eng browser hijacker has infected your computer include:
The default search engine of your web browser changes to Safe Search Eng.
Your browser's search queries are rerouted through safesearcheng.com.
The presence of the "Safe Search Eng" browser extension or program on your computer.
What Are Browser Hijackers and Why Are They a Potential Security and Privacy Threat?
Browser hijackers are malicious software or extensions that modify the settings of a web browser without the user's consent. They typically alter the default search engine, homepage, and new tab page, redirecting users to undesired websites. While not all browser hijackers are inherently harmful, they can pose significant security and privacy threats for several reasons:
- Unauthorized Modifications: Browser hijackers forcefully change browser settings without the user's knowledge or consent. This intrusive behavior undermines user control over their browsing experience and can be frustrating to revert.
- Information Tracking: Many browser hijackers track users' online activities, including browsing habits, search queries, and personal information. This data is often used for targeted advertising or sold to third parties, compromising user privacy.
- Unwanted Advertisements: Browser hijackers frequently inject intrusive and irrelevant advertisements into web pages, disrupting the user experience. These ads can be annoying, deceptive, and even lead to further malware infections if clicked.
- Exposure to Malicious Content: Some browser hijackers redirect users to malicious websites that host malware, phishing scams, or other harmful content. This puts users at risk of inadvertently downloading malware, disclosing sensitive information, or falling victim to online scams.
- Diminished System Performance: Browser hijackers consume system resources, slowing down the browser and overall computer performance. This can result in sluggishness, freezing, or crashes, adversely affecting productivity.
- Vulnerability Exploitation: Browser hijackers often exploit vulnerabilities in browsers and operating systems to gain unauthorized access to the user's system. Once inside, they can install additional malware, compromise system security, or collect sensitive information.
- Difficult to Remove: Many browser hijackers are designed to resist removal, making it challenging for users to uninstall them. They may modify system files, disable security software, or reinstall themselves even after removal attempts, prolonging the threat.
