The application not only causes browsing-related problems but might put the user’s privacy at risk due to suspicious data tracking activities. Even though it is legitimate, the key dilemma lies in its security. Though it is not technically a virus, it still raises speculations for IT experts that it might be related to Amazon virus. Search queries, IP address, sites visited, links clicked, and similar non-personally identifiable data are carefully gathered to compile a profile that is later targeted by pop-ups, in-text links, promotional offers, deals, and other intrusive content.įinally, the questionable- considered program Amazon Assistant changes the homepage, search engine, and the new tab address to Amazon Smart Search – this is a clear indication of browser hijacking functionalities, and this technique is used to display altered search results, filling them with sponsored links. Probably the most concerning part of this application is the information tracking that it performs during its operation on users' browsers. Users are unhappy about its functionality, as it does not fulfill what it promises – all the functionality can be simply accomplished when visiting the official Amazon site.
However, as shown by Amazon Assistant reviews, the application got quite a bit of negative feedback. Initially, the program was designed as a handy tool that would make the shopping experience for users better.
