Browser Hijackers: What to Look For

A browser hijacker uses a Wi-Fi connection to take control of your browser application. Hijackers frequently use deceptive means that trick internet surfers into allowing the installation of malicious code. This can occur when a site visitor clicks on a deceptive link, starting a download of an application that seizes control of the victim’s internet browser.

Another way browser hijackers may seize control of your browser is by placing URL shortcuts in your desktop or favorites folder. If you are not careful in the procedures you use to remove these intrusions, you may end up with a loss of functionality in your browser.

Sometimes, a breech in internet security can impact your ability to connect to the internet.
Typically hijackers will use a web browser plug-in that changes the browser’s default settings. Or, a Trojan may convince you to download what you may think is a cool video, but is actually hijacking software. You may also suffer a hijacking attack through downloading a free game, or you may fall victim to a free offer that connives you into installing malicious programs on your computer.

Sometimes, Trojan viruses distributed by browser hijackers may issue fictitious warnings that prompt the user to download an application. Such ruses are known as scareware. These malware applications may also disrupt your internet browsing through enticing you with deceptive, free offers that convince you to install spyware that is actually malicious code. That is one of the most common ways in which you may have your browser hijacked. If they installed on your computer, internet Explorer ActiveX scripts will execute the suspicious program. Then, changes to the settings on your browser may occur.

When trickery and deception abound among browser hijackers, how will you know your browser has been hijacked? One common sign is an increase in popup advertising. Sometimes this may consist of material advertising sex sites. New toolbars may suddenly appear in your browser window, as well as unfamiliar icons. These will likely include links to infected websites.

One sign you should never ignore is a slowdown in computer operations. Many times this will be the first indication that hijackers have compromised your browser or operating system. Those who hijack browsers may also use security holes in a browser and install malicious code in the background. Browser hijackers should be removed as soon as they are discovered. Yet users may have a difficult time regaining control of a hijacked browser. You may find that you are unable to gain access to security solutions provider websites.

Preventing a hijacking of your browser involves the installation of antivirus software, as well as checking your current browser- security settings. Be careful about activating Microsoft’s Active X scripts from a webpage. For Windows operating systems, Microsoft offers free malicious code removal tools. Recovering from a hijacking requires antivirus removal tools. Until you can remove the malicious code, you may be able to switch to a different browser in the interim.

If it’s not a virus, you may have to disconnect your computer from the internet, and use a clean computer to download cleansing tools. A traditional uninstall may remove some or all of the hijacking code. Next, do a complete system scan. Then, reboot your computer, but before connecting to the internet, reset your browser settings for maximum protection. A helper code that can track links, passwords, and financial data like credit card numbers may also infect a browser system. Malicious browser helper objects (BHO’s), which may have been installed on your PC, should be removed with a BHO remover tool.

Do not think you are immune to browser hijackers if you use the Macintosh OS X operating system. One case in point was the Trojan OS X/DNSChanger, which was infecting Macintosh systems in 2009. The program appeared as installation code for Mac Cinema. Downloads of the hijacking code were found on some mainstream sites that were distributing technical and gaming material. Installing a Trojan may change OS X network settings, thereby using a different DNS server. This in turn, may redirect the user to a site containing malicious code.

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