OriginType is associated with browser hijackers, adware and Potentially Unwanted Programs (or PUPs) that were written for Mac systems. The application may have been installed without the user’s consent or knowledge via misleading pop-ups or third-party installers. Once the installation is complete, it makes changes to the user’s web browser. OriginType may alter the homepage, the new page tab, and the browser’s default search engine and redirect users to an unreliable landing page. Subsequently, every time users launch the browser, open a new tab, or start a search through the URL bar, it will immediately open the web destination chosen by the app’s operator.
The address promoted by OriginType – search.5k8zh0i.com, redirects users to a fake search engine that doesn’t provide search results on its own. When users initiate a search, they are redirected to another domain. This can be a legitimate search engine, such as Yahoo, Bing, and Google. The browser hijacker’s website displays sponsored content even if the search queries come through Yahoo, Bing or other third-party search engines.
Generally speaking, users may unintentionally install the OriginType application on their Mac. It happens because of popular distribution methods used by browser hijackers, adware, and potentially unwanted programs that may employ shady advertisements or come bundled with third-party applications in software installations.
Another risk associated with the presence of OriginType and other similar programs lurking in your Mac is the program’s potential ability to track your device details. The browsing details that this program could collect include browsing activity logs and other information such as browsing history, clicks, and web searches. Other details that include IP address, geolocation, browser type, Internet provider may also be collected.
How Do I Remove Origin Type?
You can scan for and remove OriginType and any of its elements from your Mac using a reputable malware remediation application. This way, you can additionally scan for other potentially harmful programs that may be lurking on your Mac.