Travel Tab Rogue Browser Extension
We came across the Travel Tab browser extension during an investigation of questionable websites. Travel Tab is marketed as a convenient tool for accessing travel and hotel-related news.
Upon analyzing this software, we determined that it functions as a browser hijacker. Travel Tab alters browser settings to promote the fake search engine traveldailydiscounts.com, primarily through redirection. Browser hijackers typically set promoted websites as the homepage, default search engine, and URLs for new browser tabs and windows.
Travel Tab modifies these settings to point to traveldailydiscounts.com. As a result, when new browser tabs or windows are opened, or when search queries are entered into the URL bar, users are redirected to the traveldailydiscounts.com website.
Fake search engines typically lack the capability to provide genuine search results, so they often redirect users to established search engines. At the time of our research, traveldailydiscounts.com redirected users either to Bing (bing.com) or Google (google.com), although the specific destination could vary depending on the user's IP address.
Browser-hijacking software often employs techniques to ensure its persistence, which make it difficult to remove and prevent users from restoring their browsers to their preferred or even default settings.
Moreover, it is likely that Travel Tab possesses data-tracking capabilities. This may include collecting information such as browsing and search history, internet cookies, personally identifiable information, and financial data. This collected data may be shared with or sold to third parties.
What Are Rogue Browser Extensions?
Rogue browser extensions, also known as potentially unwanted or unauthorized browser extensions, are add-on software modules that can be installed in web browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and others. Unlike legitimate browser extensions that enhance your browsing experience, provide useful features, or improve productivity, rogue extensions are designed with malicious intent and can have harmful effects on your browser and computer. Here are some characteristics and risks associated with rogue browser extensions:
Malware Distribution: Rogue browser extensions are often used as a means to distribute malware. They may contain or facilitate the download of malicious software, including viruses, Trojans, adware, spyware, and ransomware.
Browser Hijacking: These extensions can take control of your browser settings without your consent. This may involve changing your homepage, default search engine, or new tab page to unwanted or malicious sites.
Adware and Unwanted Pop-Ups: Many rogue extensions generate intrusive advertisements, including pop-ups, pop-unders, banners, and auto-playing videos. These ads can disrupt your browsing experience and even lead to more malicious content.
Data Tracking: Some rogue extensions may secretly collect your browsing data, search history, and personal information without your knowledge or consent. This information can be used for malicious purposes or sold to third parties.
Phishing: Rogue extensions can redirect you to phishing websites that impersonate legitimate sites, such as banking or email login pages, to steal your login credentials and sensitive information.
Performance Issues: These extensions can consume system resources, causing your browser to slow down, freeze, or crash. They can also lead to increased CPU and memory usage.
Unauthorized Access: Rogue extensions may gain unauthorized access to your browser and online accounts, potentially compromising your privacy and security.
