SempervivumTectorum Rogue Browser Extension
While investigating an installer package, we uncovered concerning activities conducted by the SempervivumTectorum browser extension. These actions included enabling the "Managed by your organization" feature within Chrome settings and gathering user data. As a result, individuals who have added the SempervivumTectorum extension to their browsers should promptly uninstall it.
SempervivumTectorum requests permission to access and modify data on all web pages, as well as manage applications, extensions, and themes. While such extensive access can have legitimate purposes, it also presents potential risks, underscoring the need for vigilance and a thorough understanding of potential consequences.
When an unfamiliar or untrusted extension, such as SempervivumTectorum, seeks these permissions, it should raise suspicions of potential malicious intent. Granting such broad access can lead to various problems, including data breaches, loss of control over your browser, and the installation of additional unwanted or harmful software.
Malicious extensions like SempervivumTectorum can jeopardize sensitive data, introduce unwanted advertisements, disrupt the browsing experience, and more. Additionally, our investigation revealed that the installer distributing SempervivumTectorum includes extra undesirable software components, such as the Chromstera browser.
It is crucial to emphasize that applications like SempervivumTectorum may come bundled with adware, browser hijackers, and other unwelcome applications. In certain instances, the installers disseminating these applications may even conceal more severe threats, such as ransomware, Trojans, cryptocurrency miners, and other types of malware.
What Are Rogue Browser Extensions?
Rogue browser extensions, also known as malicious or rogue browser add-ons, are browser extensions or plugins that are designed with malicious intent or deceptive purposes. These extensions are typically installed in web browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, or others, and they often perform actions that are harmful to users or their browsing experience. Here are some common characteristics and activities associated with rogue browser extensions:
Deceptive Behavior: Rogue extensions often masquerade as legitimate tools or utilities, such as ad blockers, video downloaders, or system optimizers. They may use misleading names and descriptions to entice users into installing them.
Unauthorized Actions: Rogue extensions may perform actions without the user's consent or knowledge, such as modifying browser settings, injecting unwanted ads into web pages, redirecting web traffic, or collecting user data.
Data Collection: Some rogue extensions engage in unauthorized data collection, including tracking users' browsing habits, collecting personal information, or even logging keystrokes. This data can be used for malicious purposes or sold to third parties.
Browser Hijacking: Rogue extensions often hijack browsers by changing default search engines, homepages, or new tab pages. Users may find it challenging to revert these changes.
Ad Injection: Many rogue extensions inject additional advertisements into web pages, disrupting the user's browsing experience and potentially leading to adware infections.
Phishing and Scams: Some rogue extensions may lead users to phishing websites or scams, attempting to trick them into revealing sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial details.
Unwanted Software Bundling: Rogue extensions are sometimes distributed as part of software bundles. Users may unknowingly install them when downloading legitimate software or updates.
Persistence: These extensions may employ techniques to remain persistent even after attempts to uninstall or remove them from the browser, making them challenging to eradicate.
Security Risks: Rogue extensions can pose security risks to users by exposing them to malware, ransomware, or other malicious content. They can also compromise users' online privacy.
