Tropical Extension Browser Hijacker

Tropical Extension came to our attention during an investigation of suspicious websites. This extension initially claims to offer tropical-themed browser wallpapers, but upon closer examination, it was identified as a browser hijacker. Its primary function is to alter browser settings in a way that promotes the use of the fake search engine tropicalextension.com.

Browser hijacking software typically makes changes to browsers' settings, including homepage, default search engine, and new tab/window URLs. In the case of Tropical Extension, these settings were manipulated to direct users to the tropicalextension.com website. Consequently, when users opened new browser tabs/windows or entered search queries into the URL bar, they were redirected to tropicalextension.com.

It's worth noting that browser hijackers often employ techniques to maintain their presence on a system, making it difficult for users to remove them and restore their browsers to their original settings.

Fake search engines like tropicalextension.com typically do not generate their own search results; instead, they redirect users to legitimate search websites. In the case of tropicalextension.com, it redirects users to the Bing search engine (bing.com). However, it's important to be aware that factors like user geolocation can influence where these redirects lead.

Furthermore, browser-hijacking software often engages in the surveillance of users' online activities, and Tropical Extension may be no exception. This surveillance can involve collecting various types of information, such as visited URLs, viewed webpages, entered search queries, cookies, usernames and passwords, personally identifiable details, financial data, and more. This collected information may then be monetized by selling it to third parties.

What Are Browser Hijackers and How Are They Distributed?

Browser hijackers are a type of malicious software or unwanted software that, once installed on a user's computer, alter the settings of their web browser without their consent. The primary goal of browser hijackers is to redirect web traffic, change the user's homepage and default search engine, and, in some cases, collect browsing data for various purposes, including advertising and marketing.

Here's how browser hijackers are typically distributed:

• Bundled Software: Browser hijackers are often bundled with legitimate software downloads. Users may inadvertently install them when they download and install free software from untrustworthy sources. To avoid this, always download software from reputable websites and read installation prompts carefully.
• Deceptive Websites: Some websites may trick users into installing browser hijackers by displaying fake error messages or fake software updates. Users are prompted to click on these messages, leading to the download and installation of the hijacker.
• Email Attachments: Browser hijackers can sometimes be distributed via email attachments. Users who open infected email attachments may inadvertently install the hijacker.
• Malicious Links: Clicking on malicious links in emails, social media messages, or on websites can lead to the download and installation of browser hijackers. Users should exercise caution and avoid clicking on suspicious links.
• Fake Browser Extensions: Browser hijackers can be disguised as browser extensions or add-ons. Users may be enticed to install these extensions, believing they offer useful features.