Sports Engine Rogue Browser Extension
Upon analyzing the Sports Engine browser extension, we have found that it takes control of a user's web browser by modifying its settings, which raises a red flag. This browser-hijacking extension is designed to promote a counterfeit search engine known as sportengine.info and has the ability to access certain data.
Once installed, Sports Engine replaces the default homepage, search engine, and new tab page with its fraudulent search engine sportengine.info, which may appear as a legitimate search engine at first glance. However, it primarily generates search results from Bing, as users are redirected to bing.com. Due to this deceptive practice, we have identified sportengine.info as a fake search engine.
Our analysis has also revealed that Sports Engine has the capability to read the list of frequently visited websites by a user, including viewed pages, search terms, and other information that can create a profile of their online activities. This is a matter of concern since browsing history can unveil personal information, interests, and behavior patterns, which may be exploited for targeted advertising or other purposes.
What Are Rogue Browser Extensions and Browser Hijackers?
Rogue browser extensions and browser hijackers are types of malicious software that can affect web browsers. Rogue browser extensions are typically disguised as legitimate browser extensions, but they are designed to perform malicious activities such as stealing data, serving unwanted ads, or redirecting web traffic.
On the other hand, browser hijackers are types of malware that take control of a user's web browser by altering its settings. Browser hijackers may replace the default homepage, search engine, or new tab page with a fake one that promotes a particular product or service. They can also collect browsing data or other personal information from users.
Both rogue browser extensions and browser hijackers can be distributed through various channels, such as software bundling, phishing emails, or social engineering tactics. They can cause significant inconvenience to users and pose a threat to their privacy and security. Therefore, it is important to be cautious when downloading and installing browser extensions and to use reputable security software to protect against these types of threats.
