CompTIA Tech+ (FC0-U71)Applications and SoftwareMedium
A user reports that their web browser is much slower than usual, and they are constantly being redirected to search engines they did not set as default. They also observe new, unwanted extensions installed in the browser. Which browser component is MOST likely compromised?
- ACache
- BExtensions/Add-ons
- CHistory
- DBookmarks
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Extensions/Add-ons
Unwanted extensions or add-ons are a common vector for browser hijacking and performance degradation. They can redirect traffic, change default search engines, and inject ads, directly matching the described symptoms.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Browser cache stores temporary files for faster loading but doesn't cause redirects or install unwanted components.
- C. Browser history logs visited websites and does not cause performance issues or redirects.
- D. Bookmarks are user-saved links and do not cause performance issues or redirects.
Browser Extensions/Add-ons
Small software modules that customize or enhance the functionality of a web browser, but can also be malicious.
- Extend browser capabilities.
- Can access browser data and modify web content.
- Malicious extensions can lead to hijacking, data theft, and performance issues.
Memory trick: Extensions extend, but can also entangle your browser's intentions.