Ultra Search Engine is a browser hijacker and potentially unwanted program (PUP) that can take control of the system. It reassigns the homepage, new tab page and default search engine on affected computers.
It can also deliver a variety of intrusive ads that can slow down the performance and may even cause system crashes. In addition, it collects personal information and sends it to unknown third parties.
Browser Hijacker
Browser hijackers feed you with annoying ads, suck up your web space and, in some cases, steal information on your browsing habits. This data is often sold to third parties for marketing purposes. Criminals create this malware to earn money by imposing their own agenda on the web-surfing user.
If you see a different search engine on your browser’s default page or if you’re being shown a whole new homepage, then a hacker has probably hijacked your web browser. Normally, these parasites are bundled together with hazardous free applications or ad-supporting programs and sneak onto the computer without the user’s knowledge. Removing the host application does not usually eliminate the bundled hijacker, however.
Some examples of these programs are Ask Toolbar and GoSave, both of which hijack the browser search engine and homepage and install useless extensions on the computer. These types of malicious software also push irksome pop-ups that serve as gateways for other malware.
Adware
The adware is a type of malware that infiltrates your Mac browser by changing its default settings and showing you false ads. It also reroutes you to fake websites that try to sell software, push fake software updates, and promote tech support scams. It usually gets downloaded and installed when you download files from untrusted or unverified sources.
Adware usually reassigns your homepage, default search engine and new tab/window URLs to its own domain. It also shows you a wide range of intrusive advertisements, coupons, banners, offers and surveys. These ads are designed to generate revenue for its creators by using pay-per-click model.
In addition, adware can track your location and browsing history to display targeted ads to your device. It may even share your personal information with third parties, which can be a serious breach of privacy. The best way to detect and remove the adware is by using an anti-virus program. However, if you want to remove it manually, you should open System Preferences, click the “Profiles” icon and then delete the profile related to UltraSearchEngine.
Malware
Ultra Search Engine is malware that reroutes users to untrusted websites, phishing portals or even malicious software downloads. It displays eye-catching deals, offers, coupons and banners to trick users into clicking on them. However, once clicked, these advertisements will trigger browser redirections and impose unwanted pop-up ads on users’ computers.
These potentially unwanted applications (PUAs) proliferate using a deceptive marketing technique called “bundling”. They are pre-packaged with other software and distributed through various distribution channels, including pirated file sharing networks, fake/rogue download sites and P2P network portals.
When clicked, intrusive advertisements will execute scripts to stealthily download/install PUAs without the user’s knowledge or consent. Therefore, it is recommended to use a legitimate anti-malware program like Malwarebytes for Mac that can automatically scan and remove malware infections from the computer. This tool also provides a complete malware removal guide that will help you get back to your regular computer settings quickly and safely. This is an important step in regaining your peace of mind and keeping your data secure.
Privacy Concerns
There is a fine line between the commercial relationship between users and search engine companies and the rights of individuals to privacy. Many users of these sites are concerned that the companies may be tracking their personal data for advertising purposes and leveraging this information for profit.
The Ultra Search App is an adware program that uses the name of a legitimate service to lure users to shady websites and download other malicious programs. It can also monetize its presence on the system by showing various types of ads including pop-ups, images and banners. These advertisements can suck up resources and slow down the system.
This adware-type program typically sneaks into the computer by bundling with other free software. Therefore, it is important to be wary of what you download from the internet and always choose the manual or custom setup options. In addition, you should read the terms of use of any software before installing it on your device.