What happens when a browser's settings are altered without the user's consent due to malicious software?

When a browser's settings are altered without the user's consent due to malicious software, it is referred to as browser hijacking. This occurs when malicious software modifies the browser settings, such as the homepage, search engine, or new tab page, often redirecting users to unwanted websites or displaying intrusive ads.

Browser hijacking undermines user control over their browsing experience and can lead to security risks, including exposure to further malicious software and theft of personal information. Users may notice unwanted changes in their browser's behavior, indicating that they may have fallen victim to this type of attack.

In contrast, spyware activity involves the surveillance of user actions without their knowledge, typically gathering personal information rather than altering browser settings. Phishing attempts are fraudulent communications, often masquerading as legitimate institutions, aiming to steal sensitive data. A data breach is a security incident where unauthorized access to confidential data occurs, which can have a different set of implications compared to browser hijacking. Thus, browser hijacking specifically pertains to the unauthorized alteration of browser settings.