Website Security Scanner Rogue Extension

The Website Security Scanner is promoted as a tool designed to check the safety of visited websites by consulting more than fifty databases. Our researchers came across this browser extension while conducting a routine examination of suspicious sites.

Upon inspecting this piece of software, we concluded that it is, in fact, adware. The Website Security Scanner is responsible for launching aggressive advertising campaigns and monitoring users' online activities.
Adware, short for advertising-supported software, enables the display of third-party visual content (such as pop-ups, coupons, overlays, banners, etc.) on visited websites and other interfaces.

These advertisements predominantly endorse online scams, unreliable or potentially harmful software, and even potential malware. Clicking on some of these ads may trigger scripts that initiate concealed downloads or installations.

It's important to note that while genuine products or services may occasionally appear through these ads, they are unlikely to be promoted by their creators. It is highly probable that scammers exploit affiliate programs to earn illegitimate commissions through this promotion.

Ad-supported software may not run intrusive advertising campaigns if certain conditions are not met, such as incompatible browsers or system configurations, unvisited specific sites, or other unsuitable circumstances. However, even when the Website Security Scanner doesn't display ads, it remains a security threat.

This adware-type extension possesses data-tracking capabilities. The information it collects may encompass browsing histories, search engine usage, internet cookies, login credentials, personally identifiable information, financial data, and more. This sensitive data can then be shared with or sold to third parties.

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 harmful intent and pose a threat to the security and privacy of users' online activities. These extensions can be found on various web browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and others. Here are key characteristics and risks associated with rogue browser extensions:

• Malicious Intent: Rogue browser extensions are developed with the primary purpose of engaging in malicious activities. These activities may include adware, spyware, data theft, and other harmful actions.
• Adware: Some rogue extensions are focused on injecting unwanted and intrusive advertisements into the user's web browsing experience. These ads can be in the form of pop-ups, banners, or redirects to potentially harmful websites.
• Spyware: Rogue extensions may monitor a user's online behavior, capturing sensitive data such as browsing history, search queries, login credentials, and personal information. This data can be used for malicious purposes or sold to third parties.
• Phishing: Some rogue extensions are used to conduct phishing attacks. They can redirect users to fake websites that impersonate legitimate ones, aiming to steal login credentials or financial information.
• Browser Hijacking: Rogue extensions can take control of a user's browser settings, changing the homepage, search engine, and new tab page without their consent. This can be disruptive and frustrating for users.
• Privacy Invasion: These extensions can infringe upon a user's privacy by collecting sensitive information, such as personally identifiable data and financial details, and using it for malicious purposes or selling it on the black market.