The gathered data is monetized by being shared with and/or sold to third-parties. Information of interest includes browsing and search engine histories, personally identifiable details, and so on. What is more, most PUAs (adware and browser hijackers included) can track data. Browser hijackers also use persistence-ensuring methods to prevent users from restoring their browsers. Hence, new browser tabs/windows opened and web searches done via the URL bar - redirect to the promoted address.įraudulent search engines typically cannot provide search results, so they redirect to Yahoo, Google, Bing, and other legitimate ones. Furthermore, once clicked on, some of these adverts can download/install software (e.g., PUAs) without user consent.īrowser hijackers reassign browsers' homepage, new tab/window, and default search engine URLs - to fake web searcher addresses. Intrusive ads endorse sale-oriented, untrustworthy, deceptive/scam, and malicious websites.

They severely diminish the browsing experience and pose a threat to device/user safety. Additionally, due to the dubious techniques used to distribute software products within these classifications, they are also considered to be PUAs (Potentially Unwanted Applications).Īdware delivers various pop-ups, banners, coupons, surveys, and other intrusive advertisements. OptimalOrigin is an adware-type app with browser hijacker qualities.