Browser hijacker - what is it?

In this practical tip, we explain what is behind the term "browser hijacker".

What is a browser hijacker?

Browser hijackers are small programs that manipulate your browser. The English term "hijack" stands for "kidnap" in German. These programs are usually installed unnoticed by other software.
The browser hijackers are usually installed as a program on your computer, but cannot be started. The main goal of the hijacker is to manipulate the browser for advertising purposes.
In most cases, the home page and search engine change. Words are suddenly linked to websites and the search results are manipulated so that you are redirected to wrong websites. Pop-ups also occur regularly.
Hijackers are often not dangerous, but extremely annoying. The developers mainly make their money by displaying advertisements that you do not want. Even in popular and reputable software, more harmless hijackers are often offered during installation.

The hijackers are not only found in your browser, but also in the registry and browser links. In addition, the adware runs unnoticed as a service or process on your PC.
In many cases it is sufficient to uninstall the listed software for browser hijackers. If you find an unknown or conspicuous entry among the most recently installed programs, you have probably already found it. You can find detailed instructions on removal in the practical tip "Uninstall Windows programs".
The free program AdwCleaner specializes in browser hijackers. All relevant areas are searched and cleaned within one minute. How to delete deeper hijackers and the remains of hijackers that have already been removed.

In the next practical tip, we will show you how to check individual files online for viruses.