PUP.Optional.Spigot

Short bio

PUP.Optional.Spigot is Malwarebytes’ generic detection name for a large family of browser hijackers.

Symptoms

Users of affected systems may find that their newtab page has changed and their default search engine is a different one.

Type and source of infection

PUP.Optional.Spigot extensions are promoted as useful additional search extensions for a specific subject (f.e. file converters).PUP.Optional.Spigot extensions are usually installed by users themselves due to aggressive and misleading advertising.

Protection

Malwarebytes blocks PUP.Optional.Spigot

Malwarebytes also blocks the domains associated with these extensions.

Malwarebytes blocks the search domain of PUP.Optional.Spigot