Browser hijacker

What is browser hijacker?
A browser hijacker is spy or malware, commonly available as a web browser add-on that changes a web user's browser settings to change the default home, error or search page. It can redirect the user to unwanted websites while collecting sensitive private information for personal or business benefit.

If a browser hijacker is not removed, the infected web browser can, by default, take over the settings of the malware browser after each restart, even if the settings are adjusted manually.
Browser hijackers generate revenue and traffic to websites that collect personal computer data or install keyloggers, malware or adware to steal sensitive information such as usernames and passwords.

Infection methods:

Usually, these hijackers are installed by dangerous free applications, promotional programs, or shareware that contain a variety of browser plugins and toolbars. In many cases, removing the host application does not eliminate the bundled parasite.

Viele Adware- und Spyware-Parasiten verfügen über integrierte Browser-Hijacker, die während des Installationsprozesses des Hostparasiten installiert werden. Das Entfernen von spezifischer Adware oder Spyware entfernt den Browser-Hijacker nicht.

Some browser hijackers that are regularly found enter the computer via ActiveX controls of Internet Explorer (IE) or use browser vulnerabilities.

A typical parasite can greatly complicate a user's job and reduce productivity. The negative effects can include:

Favorites and most visited pages are blocked.

Browser security is minimal.

Web queries cannot be carried out using search engines.

Necessary data may not be accessed.
Browser hijackers can also attack the system and installed applications. These parasites can cause browser instability problems, repetitive errors, and general performance problems.

Preventive tools include vigilance and common sense. For example, never click on pop-up ads from an unknown or untrustworthy website when installing extensions like Google Toolbar. If any software application requests approval before downloading, read the product terms carefully to prevent blind browser hijacking.

Merijn Bellekom hat das Tool CWShredder Hijacker Removal zur Bekämpfung von CoolWebSearch (CWS) entwickelt, einem der ersten Browser-Hijacker, der den Web-User-Traffic auf Suchmaschinen-Ergebnisse mit verschiedenen Formen von Adware lenkt. Zu dieser Zeit fehlten Antivirus-, Adware- und Anti-Malware-Programmen Funktionen zum Entfernen von Hijackern.