Researchers warn this ‘privacy browser’ behaves like malware

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Credit: Mishaal Rahman / Android Authority


TL;DR

• A “privacy browser” called Universe Browser reportedly installs hidden software and routes data through servers in China.
• An Infoblox report states that it behaves like malware, with keylogging features and disabled security tools.
• The browser has reportedly been downloaded millions of times, with ties to illegal gambling sites.

A web browser claiming to keep your data safe may be doing exactly the opposite. According to a new investigation, an app called Universe Browser, which has reportedly been downloaded millions of times, surreptitiously installs dangerous software and routes your internet traffic through servers in China.

The findings were reported by Wired, which reviewed a study shared with it by cybersecurity firm Infoblox and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The researchers say the ‘privacy browser’ behaves a lot like malware, with features that resemble keylogging, secret connections to external servers, and background activity that alters device settings. It even blocks features like right-click menus and developer tools, and disables key browser security protections.




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