When you open your browser, you expect to see your homepage or search engine of choice. But what if, instead, you’re suddenly redirected to strange websites, flooded with unwanted ads, or your search results look suspicious? If that sounds familiar, your system may be infected with a browser hijacker.
What is a Browser Hijacker?
A browser hijacker is a type of malicious software that alters your web browser’s settings without your permission. Its main goal is to redirect you to websites that generate revenue through ads, collect your browsing data, or trick you into downloading more harmful software.
Browser hijackers usually:
- Change your default search engine or homepage.
- Redirect your browser to unfamiliar websites.
- Display excessive pop-up ads or fake alerts.
- Slow down browsing performance.
How Do Browser Hijackers Get Into Your System?
Most hijackers sneak into your computer through:
- Free software downloads (bundled with hidden add-ons).
- Malicious email attachments or phishing links.
- Clicking on unsafe ads or pop-ups.
- Installing fake browser extensions or toolbars.
These infections often spread because users click “Next” without carefully reading installation steps when installing free programs.
Impact of browser hijackers
1. Changes to Your Browser Settings
Instead of opening your chosen homepage or search engine, hijackers redirect you to unwanted websites. This is often done to generate ad revenue or increase traffic for hackers.
2. Installation of Unauthorised Toolbars
Many hijackers install extra toolbars and extensions you never asked for. These not only clutter your browser but may also compromise your security.
3. Tracking Your Online Activity
Some hijackers include spyware that collects details about your browsing history, search queries, and even your location. This data can be used to build a detailed profile of you for scammers.
4. Causing Adware Infections
Hijackers can install adware that floods your screen with ads and slows down your browsing experience. This makes your device frustrating to use and exposes you to more malicious sites.
5. Leading to Identity Theft
In the worst cases, hackers can use a hijacker as an entry point to access your files and accounts, putting you at risk of identity theft and financial fraud.
Warning signs of browser hijackers
It is usually fairly easy to tell if your browser has been hijacked. Look out for the following warning signs:
- Redirected searches: Instead of navigating to your desired webpage, you find yourself on a completely different website, potentially an unsafe website.
- Frequent pop-ups: Your browser is flooded with pop-up ads every time you’re online. At best, it’s annoying; at worst, clicking a rogue ad could infect your device further.
- Slow loading: Web pages are suddenly taking ages to load, if they load at all. That could be because a browser hijacker has commandeered your device’s resources or storage space.
- Unwanted extensions: You are seeing new, unwanted programs on your web browser that you didn’t install. These might be toolbars, extensions, or add-ons that popped up seemingly out of nowhere.
How to Prevent Browser Hijackers.
Prevention is always better than cure. Follow these practices:
- Download software only from trusted websites.
- Read installation prompts carefully – deselect unwanted add-ons.
- Keep your browser and operating system updated.
- Install reliable antivirus protection.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious ads or links.
