MagnaEngine Browser Extension
In our examination of the MagnaEngine browser extension, we uncovered its operation as a browser hijacker. This extension manipulates browser settings to promote a counterfeit search engine. Additionally, it activates the "Managed by your organization" feature.
MagnaEngine seizes control of a Chrome browser by altering default settings such as the search engine, homepage, and new tab page, directing them to magnasearch.org. Upon users entering search queries, magnasearch.org redirects them to robustsearch.io, which yielded no results in our investigation, leading us to classify magnasearch.org as a sham search engine.
These fake search engines may furnish misleading or biased search outcomes, potentially guiding users to unreliable information or malicious websites. Moreover, they and browser hijackers can be engineered to collect diverse user data, including search queries, browsing history, IP addresses, geolocation data, device identifiers, and more.
Furthermore, MagnaEngine activates the "Managed by your organization" feature, typically utilized by businesses, educational institutions, or IT administrators to enforce specific browser policies or configurations. However, when triggered by unwanted software like MagnaEngine, it signals unauthorized changes to browser settings, potentially jeopardizing user privacy and security. Users encountering this feature unexpectedly should exercise caution and take measures to regain control over their browser settings to mitigate potential risks.
Importantly, the installer distributing MagnaEngine also includes another browser hijacker called Page Summarizer AI. Consequently, users discovering MagnaEngine added to their browsers likely have Page Summarizer AI installed as well.
What is a Browser Hijacker?
A browser hijacker is a type of malicious software or potentially unwanted program (PUP) that alters a web browser's settings without the user's consent or knowledge. Once installed on a user's device, a browser hijacker can take control of the browser and manipulate various settings, such as the default homepage, search engine, new tab page, and browser shortcuts.
The primary goal of a browser hijacker is often to redirect web traffic to specific websites or search engines chosen by the hijacker's creators. These websites or search engines may be of dubious quality and may contain advertisements, sponsored links, or even malware. In some cases, browser hijackers may also display intrusive pop-up ads or inject unwanted browser extensions or toolbars into the browser.
Browser hijackers can be distributed through various channels, including software bundling (where the hijacker is packaged with legitimate software), deceptive advertisements, or malicious websites. Users may inadvertently install browser hijackers when downloading and installing software from untrustworthy sources or clicking on malicious links.
The presence of a browser hijacker can negatively impact the user experience by disrupting normal browsing activities, slowing down the browser, and exposing users to potentially harmful or unwanted content. Additionally, browser hijackers can compromise user privacy by collecting browsing data, such as search queries and website visits, and transmitting it to third parties for advertising or other purposes.
To protect against browser hijackers, users should be cautious when downloading and installing software, especially from unfamiliar sources. It's essential to read the terms of service and privacy policy before installing any software and to opt out of any optional offers or bundled software during the installation process. Additionally, users should keep their browsers and security software up to date and regularly scan their devices for malware and PUPs.
