CleanHub Tabs Browser Extension
CleanHub Tabs is a rogue browser extension. Marketed as a tool for customizing browser backgrounds, this software was found to be more nefarious upon closer inspection.
Upon examination, it became evident that CleanHub Tabs engages in browser hijacking. It alters browser settings to promote the search.tab-hub-simple.online search engine through redirects. CleanHub Tabs modifies homepages, default search engines, and new tabs/windows, effectively compelling users to visit the search.tab-hub-simple.online webpage. This search engine is classified as fake since it lacks the capability to provide search results and instead redirects users to a legitimate Internet search site.
During our research, we observed that search.tab-hub-simple.online redirected to the Bing search engine. However, it's worth noting that redirections may vary based on factors such as user geolocation.
Browser-hijacking software often maintains persistence by blocking access to removal-related settings or reversing user modifications. Additionally, browser hijackers typically possess data-tracking functionalities, a trait that may also be true for CleanHub Tabs. This could involve collecting information such as visited URLs, viewed webpages, search queries, internet cookies, and login credentials.
What Are Rogue Browser Extensions?
Rogue browser extensions, also known as malicious or rogue browser add-ons, are software components that are designed to operate within web browsers but exhibit harmful or unauthorized behavior. These extensions are typically installed without the user's knowledge or consent and can pose significant security and privacy risks to users. Rogue browser extensions may perform a variety of malicious activities, including:
Browser Hijacking: Rogue extensions may hijack the user's browser by modifying settings such as the homepage, default search engine, or new tab page. They may redirect users to malicious websites, display unwanted advertisements, or promote fake search engines.
Data Collection: Rogue extensions often have the capability to collect sensitive information from users, such as browsing history, search queries, login credentials, and personal details. This information may be used for malicious purposes, such as identity theft, financial fraud, or targeted advertising.
Adware: Some rogue extensions function as adware, displaying intrusive advertisements, pop-ups, or banners within the user's browser. These advertisements may be deceptive, promoting fake products or services, or lead to further malware infections.
Phishing: Rogue extensions may engage in phishing activities by redirecting users to fake websites designed to mimic legitimate ones, such as banking or email login pages. These fake websites are used to steal users' login credentials and other sensitive information.
Browser Performance Issues: Rogue extensions can degrade browser performance by consuming system resources, causing slowdowns, crashes, or freezes. They may also interfere with the functioning of other legitimate browser extensions or applications.
