Web Bear Search
Threat Scorecard
EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecard
EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards are assessment reports for different malware threats which have been collected and analyzed by our research team. EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards evaluate and rank threats using several metrics including real-world and potential risk factors, trends, frequency, prevalence, and persistence. EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards are updated regularly based on our research data and metrics and are useful for a wide range of computer users, from end users seeking solutions to remove malware from their systems to security experts analyzing threats.
EnigmaSoft Threat Scorecards display a variety of useful information, including:
Ranking: The ranking of a particular threat in EnigmaSoft’s Threat Database.
Severity Level: The determined severity level of an object, represented numerically, based on our risk modeling process and research, as explained in our Threat Assessment Criteria.
Infected Computers: The number of confirmed and suspected cases of a particular threat detected on infected computers as reported by SpyHunter.
See also Threat Assessment Criteria.
| Ranking: | 4,918 |
| Threat Level: | 50 % (Medium) |
| Infected Computers: | 57 |
| First Seen: | May 15, 2024 |
| Last Seen: | May 27, 2024 |
| OS(es) Affected: | Windows |
Infosec experts have flagged the Web Bear Search as an intrusive browser extension. The application was discovered during an investigation of suspicious online platforms. The experts determined that this extension acts as a browser hijacker. The Web Bear Search operates by silently altering browser settings, with the primary aim of promoting the webbearsearch.com fake search engine through forced redirections.
The Web Bear Search Takes Over Essential Browser Settings
Browser hijackers manipulate users' browsing experiences by altering default search engines, homepages and new tab pages. In the case of the Web Bear Search, these settings are adjusted to direct users to webbearsearch.com. Consequently, whenever users open a new browser tab or initiate a search query in the URL bar, they are redirected to the webbearsearch.com page.
Fake search engines, a common component of browser hijackers, lack the ability to produce genuine search results. Instead, they redirect users to legitimate internet search engines. However, the final destination of the Web page may vary and be influenced by factors like user geolocation.
It's crucial to recognize that browser hijacking software often employs persistence techniques to maintain control. These methods, such as blocking access to removal settings or undoing user modifications, are designed to hinder users from easily restoring their browsers to their original states.
Furthermore, the Web Bear Search may possess data-tracking capabilities, a common trait of browser hijackers. These invasive programs typically target various user information, including visited URLs, viewed webpages, search queries, internet cookies, usernames, passwords, personally identifiable details and financial information. The collected data may be shared with or sold to third parties, raising concerns about the potential misuse of sensitive information and user privacy.
Users Often Do not Realize When Browser Hijackers Get Installed on Their Devices
Users often do not realize when browser hijackers get installed on their devices due to the shady distribution tactics exploited by these intrusive applications. Here are several reasons why:
- Bundled Software: Browser hijackers are often bundled with legitimate software that users intentionally download. However, these bundles may not clearly disclose the presence of the hijacker, leading users to inadvertently install it alongside the desired software.
- Deceptive Installation Prompts: During the installation process, users may encounter misleading prompts or checkboxes that automatically consent to the installation of additional software, including browser hijackers. Users who quickly click through installation screens without carefully reviewing them may unknowingly agree to install the hijacker.
- Misleading Advertisements: Users may encounter deceptive advertisements or pop-ups claiming to offer useful software or browser extensions. These advertisements often employ persuasive language or urgent calls to action, enticing users to download and install the hijacker without fully understanding its implications.
- Social Engineering Tactics: Browser hijackers may use social engineering tactics to manipulate users into installing them. For example, they may present fake error messages or warnings that claim certain software updates are necessary for security reasons, leading users to download and install the hijacker out of fear of security threats.
- Disguised as Useful Software: Browser hijackers may masquerade as useful browser extensions, toolbars, or plugins promising enhanced functionality or improved browsing experience. Users may install them believing they are adding value to their web browsing activities, only to realize later that their browsers have been compromised.
Overall, browser hijackers rely on users' lack of awareness, rushed decision-making, and trust in seemingly legitimate software to be given unauthorized access to their systems and browsers. By exploiting these tactics, browser hijackers can often go unnoticed until their intrusive behavior becomes evident, leading to frustration and potential harm for users.
