What is hijacking

One of the most popular topics discussed on computer help bulletin boards is browser hijacking. In most instances, computer users want to know how to protect themselves from malicious intrusions and outside control.

Browser hijacking occurs when unwanted software on an internet browser alters the activity of the browser. Internet browsers serve as the "window" to the internet, and people use them to search for information and either view it or interact with it.

Sometimes companies add small programs to browsers without permission from users. The makers of hijacking software range from computer and software manufacturers to hackers — or any combination of the three.

Unscrupulous individuals and organizations inject their software into browsers for several reasons:. Sometimes hackers drop malware into browsers to take users to websites used to capture critical information about them. The data could include user IDs, passwords, full names, addresses, social security numbers, and even answers to security questions — mother's maiden name, etc. Cybercriminals then use the information to access accounts that users log in to on the internet.

In some instances, they can obtain financial data and steal a user's money or identity. However, it doesn't take a super criminal to install software in a user's browser. Some marketing companies take the same steps to follow activity on the internet to see the sites users visit and how long they spend on those web pages.

They then either use the information themselves to target their ad campaigns or sell it to other companies that use the data to focus their marketing content.

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My word lists. Tell us about this example sentence:. Filters 0. Words form: highjacked highjacking highjacks hijacked hijacking hijacks. See word origin. The definition of hijack is to take over something that doesn't belong to you such as a plane, ship, bus or other vehicle, to commandeer or to take over by force.

To forcibly stop and seize control of some vehicle in order to rob it or to reach a destination especially an airplane, truck or a boat. To steal such goods from a person by force. To cheat, swindle, etc. To seize control forcibly of an aircraft, bus, ship, etc. To take over control of a vehicle or airplane by use of the threat of force.