Browser hijackers are a type of malware designed to manipulate a user’s web browser settings. Unlike other malware, their primary goal is to alter your browsing experience rather than infect your system with viruses or steal sensitive data directly. These malicious tools often change your default search engine, homepage, or new tab page, and may redirect your web traffic to unwanted websites. The purpose of browser hijackers is usually to generate revenue through ads, collect user data, or both. Their infiltration methods are varied but typically involve deceptive techniques such as bundling with free software, fake updates, or phishing scams.
Browser hijackers pose several threats to both the infected system and its user. For the system, these threats can include slow performance, increased crash rates, and unwanted changes in system settings. For the user, the primary dangers are privacy issues and exposure to potentially harmful sites. Since hijackers often redirect users to dubious websites, there is an increased risk of encountering malware, phishing attempts, or fraudulent content. Unlike adware, which primarily bombards users with ads, browser hijackers specifically alter browser settings to control the user’s online activity and redirect them to specific sites.
Introducing Bookmark Plus: The Specific Threat
One notable example of a browser hijacker is “Bookmark Plus.” This particular threat is designed to modify your browser’s new tab page and default search engine settings. Once installed, Bookmark Plus will reroute your browser to a page that promotes various dubious websites, often disguised as useful tools or services. The installation typically occurs via bundled software downloads, where users inadvertently agree to install Bookmark Plus along with a seemingly legitimate application.
How Bookmark Plus Operates
Bookmark Plus primarily affects browsers by changing your new tab page and default search engine settings. This means that whenever you open a new tab or perform a web search, you are redirected to pages promoting Bookmark Plus’s affiliated sites. These redirections are usually accompanied by a plethora of ads and can severely disrupt your browsing experience. Users might also encounter misleading offers and potentially harmful links.
Detection Names for Bookmark Plus
To help users identify and remove Bookmark Plus, various anti-malware tools have specific detection names. Some common ones include:
- PUP.Optional.BookmarkPlus: This detection name is used by certain antivirus programs to identify the presence of the Bookmark Plus hijacker.
- Adware.BookmarkPlus: Some software might classify Bookmark Plus as adware due to its advertising activities.
- BrowserModifier:Win32/BookmarkPlus: This name is used by Microsoft Defender to detect Bookmark Plus on Windows systems.
Similar Threats to Watch Out For
Users encountering Bookmark Plus should also be aware of similar threats that can compromise their browsing experience. These include:
- SearchNewTab: A browser hijacker that alters your default search engine and new tab page.
- MyStartSearch: Another hijacker that modifies browser settings to redirect users to unwanted websites.
- CouponServer: An adware that floods users with ads and can also hijack browser settings.
Comprehensive Removal Guide
- Uninstall Suspicious Programs
- Open the Control Panel (Windows) or Applications folder (Mac).
- Navigate to “Programs and Features” or “Add or Remove Programs.”
- Look for any unfamiliar applications, especially those installed recently.
- Select the suspicious programs (e.g., Bookmark Plus) and click “Uninstall” or “Remove.”
- Remove Unwanted Extensions
- Open your browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox).
- Go to the Extensions or Add-ons page (usually found in the browser menu).
- Find and remove any extensions related to Bookmark Plus.
- Reset Browser Settings
- Google Chrome:
- Go to Settings > Advanced > Reset and clean up > Restore settings to their original defaults.
- Mozilla Firefox:
- Go to Help > Troubleshooting Information > Refresh Firefox.
- Microsoft Edge:
- Go to Settings > Reset settings > Restore settings to their default values.
- Google Chrome:
- Run a Full System Scan
- Use SpyHunter to run a comprehensive system scan.
- Follow the prompts to remove any detected threats related to Bookmark Plus.
- Clear Browser Cache and Cookies
- Go to the browser settings and find options for clearing browsing data.
- Ensure that you clear both cookies and cached images/files.
Preventing Future Infections
To avoid future infections with browser hijackers and similar threats:
- Be Cautious with Downloads: Only download software from reputable sources and avoid downloading from pop-ups or suspicious sites.
- Keep Software Updated: Ensure that your operating system, browser, and antivirus software are up to date with the latest security patches.
- Use a Reputable Antivirus Program: Regularly scan your system with a reliable antivirus tool to detect and remove potential threats.
