What is Browser Hijacking Software?

Browser hijacking software is a term used to describe a type of malicious software designed to take control of the user’s browser, in order to alter their internet experience. The typical way this software works is by changing the search engine that is shown on a person’s homepage and offering them more relevant advertisements. Users who are infected with this type of malware often see advertisements for popular brands such as Nike and Sony, as opposed to for products and services related to the victims’ interests. This can result in unwanted expansions into potentially dangerous areas due to an ad that has turned up not being related to your current information. It is important to note that these advertisements are not produced by the software but instead by the hijacker’s owners’ websites and managed through their own systems. Although there have been some media attention regarding these types of attacks, they are still very common occurrences. The total cost of these attacks can range from $1.5 to $15 billion a year in the United States alone, with most of that being for search engine hijacking.

Functionality:

Browser hijacking software is typically designed to be installed on a user’s computer, in order to run automatically when their browser is opened. This kind of malware can display advertisements without the user’s knowledge and without their consent. Although this type of malware is becoming more and more common, there are many ways that you can protect against it. Often the best way to stop the spread of such malware is to remove the Adware by downloading Adware.

Remove Browser Hijacking Software From Windows:

Step 1: Press the “Start” button and then click on “Control Panel”.

Step 2: Double-click on “Programs” and then click on “Uninstall a Program”. 

Step 3: Search for Browser Hijacking software or unwanted programs you want to automatically uninstall.

Step 4: Once you got it, select it and click on the “Uninstall” icon. After uninstalling your computer will be free of this hijacker.

Remove Browser Hijacking Software From macOS X:

• Step 1:  Go to the menu bar of your OS X and select “About This Mac”. 
• Step 2:  Keep pressing the “More Info” button until you reach a screen that lists your system information, including software updates. Step 3:  Install security updates and set your browser to only allow the browser you are using to download the updates.
• Step 3: Use Safari to check for software updates 2. Always install all available OS X upgrades, especially around major release dates, when malicious software could be installed on any computer with a vulnerable version of OS X.

Countermeasures: 

• Avoid sending sensitive files through programs like “Email Attachments”, “Dropbox” and “Disk Image”. 
• Request users to avoid opening any email attachments from unknown senders. 
• Ensure all programs which are installed on your computer are updated regularly, and always check the internet browser’s security settings to ensure they are set up correctly to block potentially harmful sites, including phishing and malware sites.