A free web browser, proudly claiming to be a “copyright infringement protection tool,” is actually a scam tool that boosts hits for provocative adult websites.
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| Source: ECT |
According to the latest alert from security firm Panda Software, Browsezilla is a browser whose name may easily mislead users into thinking it is related to the open-source browser Mozilla.
This browser promises users that it will “erase all traces” whenever they visit adult websites. It does not use history or save data in the cache, but it allows users to bookmark pages on a remote server.
However, Browsezilla also secretly installs adware on users’ computers, significantly boosting hits for certain adult websites.
“This adware silently opens a series of ‘dirty’ sites, increasing their hits, even though users see nothing on their screens,” said J.J. Schoch, the marketing director of Panda.
Why the Warning?
In a press release warning about this browser, Panda reported that Browsezilla is becoming increasingly popular among web surfers, particularly in Italy.
Schoch noted that this is the first hit-boosting software browser he has observed. Although Browsezilla has not yet caused any serious consequences for users, Panda believes that those who created this browser will not stop there.
“They are acting in a way that could harm users. It may not destroy your computer, but it will tarnish someone’s reputation,” Schoch explained.
Even without Panda’s warning, astute users might have noticed the presence of the aforementioned adware. The download feature of this browser includes an entire section titled “Links for Adults,” featuring heavy adult imagery – a rarity in other ‘clean’ browsers.
Thien Yi
