What is a browser hijacker, and how do you remove one?

How do browser hijackers work?

A browser hijacker, also called a browser redirect virus, is malware that impacts a user’s web browser settings and fraudulently forces the browser to redirect to websites a user doesn’t intend to visit. Often, the websites that a browser hijacker redirects users to are malicious.

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Browser hijackers work by infecting your device with malware that’s downloaded unknowingly via corrupt email attachments or by visiting an unsecured website. Browser hijackers can also sneak onto your device through freeware, adware, or spyware. Once installed, they take over your web browser through malicious code.

The way a browser hijacker functions depends on the intent of the attack. Browser hijackers target different web browser settings and functions to achieve different results. Browser hijacking attacks can range from small changes like adding a new toolbar, to larger hijackings that target the domain name system (DNS), and redirect users to websites that steal their usernames, passwords, credit cards, and other important information.

Bad actors (those doing the hijacking) often orchestrate these attacks to generate fraudulent ad revenue. For example, browser hijackers could redirect your search page to random pages—which often contain manipulated results that generate income based on visits.

Another way is by installing ransomware on computers, which locks your browser and forces you to pay a ransom to regain access.

Signs of browser hijacking

Wondering if you’re dealing with a browser hijacker? Keep an eye out for the following signs:

• Web pages begin loading slower than usual
• The appearance of one or more toolbars in your web browser that you did not install
• Your searches get redirected to different websites
• New tabs keep opening on their own
• An influx of unwanted pop-up ads
• Your typical search engine has been replaced

It’s also possible that your device won’t show any signs of being infected by a browser hijacker. In this case, the browser hijacker is likely being used to spy on your activity and steal personal data.

How to remove a browser hijacker

If you observe any of the above signs or have reason to suspect that a browser hijacker has been installed on your device, try:

• Clearing your system’s DNS cache to sever connections to malicious software programs.
• Utilizing a program or tool that deletes browser hijackers and modifications or one that scans for and removes spyware.
• Deleting suspicious programs, especially any you recently downloaded.
• Resetting your browser homepage settings. In more extreme cases, uninstall and then reinstall your browser.

Tips for preventing browser hijackers

Although it is possible to remove browser hijackers once they’ve been installed, the best security measures are preventative ones. Follow these safety tips to keep your device free from browser hijackers:

• Never open suspicious links. Especially from suspicious emails, which could be phishing attempts. Refrain from opening links in unusual text messages or pop-up notifications as well.
• Keep your operating system and browser patches up to date. Browser hijackers can take advantage of breaks in operating systems and browsers. Regularly installing software updates make sure your security systems are operating optimally.
• Install an antivirus software. Choose a reliable antivirus software like Microsoft Defender that monitors for browser hijackers and other malware.
• Take precautions when downloading software. Thoroughly and carefully read end-user licensing agreements and terms and conditions when you’re downloading software to make sure it hasn’t been bundled with a browser hijacker. Don’t run freeware programs that unpack software after they’ve been installed.

If you ever find yourself dealing with a pesky browser hijacker, remember to take these steps to keep yourself safe. Download a safe and secure browser like Microsoft Edge and read more web safety tips to browse with peace of mind.