TheSearchMaps is an application that attempts to portray itself as a useful tool but functions as a browser hijacker intending to promote a fake search engine. Apps like TheSearchMaps gain access to devices via questionable distribution techniques, including downloads from questionable third-party sites, fake installers, and software updates. Because of such behavior, TheSearchMaps is considered a potentially unwanted program or PUP.
The browser hijacking capabilities possessed by TheSearchMaps allow it to establish control over a user’s web browser by modifying the homepage, new tab page, default search engine, or possibly a combination of these three settings. Ultimately, TheSearchMaps intends to drive users to a promoted page that will be opened every time the user launches the affected browser, opens new tabs, or conducts a new web search.
The operators behind TheSearchMaps are actively seeking to promote the URL feed.thesearchmaps.com. This search engine may not be able to conduct actual web searches, and visitors may have their searches automatically routed to a legitimate engine like search.yahoo.com.
PUPs can also possibly collect a user’s browsing history, search history, clicked URLs, geolocation, IP address, and more. The collected data can then be uploaded to a remote server, where it can be used in various ways.
How Do I Remove TheSearchMaps from My Computer?
You can scan for and remove elements related to UnitNetwork from your Mac using a reputable malware remediation tool. To prevent the installation of similar programs in the future, be attentive when you download software, especially when it seems to come at no cost at all. If you must install a program, do not skip installation steps: make sure to review each step to know what you’re agreeing to, and select only the features you need.
