API Cactus‑Search.com Redirect

API Cactus‑Search.com is a browser hijacker that forcefully redirects your web searches through cactus‑search.com or api.cactus‑search.com. This potentially unwanted program (PUP) stealthily infiltrates browsers, altering settings and compromising privacy.

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Threat Overview

Field	Details
Threat type	Browser hijacker / adware / redirect virus
Associated domain	api.cactus‑search.com, cactus‑search.com
Detection names	“Cactus Search”, browser search hijacker
Symptoms of infection	• Homepage, default search engine, new tab overwritten • Constant redirects to fake search pages • Excessive ads, sluggish browser performance
Damage / Distribution	• Tracks browsing activity (URLs, IP, location, search terms) • Injects ads; funnels PCs to scams or malware sites • Spread via bundled freeware, deceptive ads, fake updates
Danger level	Medium–High – privacy invasion and gateway to further threats
Removal tool	SpyHunter – Download SpyHunter

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Detailed Evaluation

How I got infected

Infections often occur when users download free software without using “Custom” installation. Hidden checkboxes install PUPs like this hijacker. Deceptive ads or fake updates (e.g. flash player installers) also trigger the download.

What does it do

Once installed, the hijacker:

1. Alters browser settings (homepage, new tab, default search) to cactus‑search.com or api.cactus‑search.com, causing constant redirects.
2. Tracks browsing habits, IPs, geolocations, and more—data is sold or used to target ads.
3. Injects ads and links that funnel users to potentially malicious sites — scams, phishing, or malware downloads.

Should you be worried for your system

Yes. While not a filesystem-infecting virus, this hijacker:

• Disrupts browsing experience (redirects, ads, slowdowns)
• Compromises privacy via data collection
• Opens doors for more serious threats via malicious redirects

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Removal and Recovery

To fully remove this hijacker:

1. Use SpyHunter: Download from the link above and run a full system scan. SpyHunter detects and removes related components.
2. Clean browser extensions/settings:
   • Remove suspicious add-ons named “Cactus Search” or similar.
   • Reset homepage, default search and new tab settings.
3. Clear browser data: cache, cookies, history—especially remnants from the hijacker.
4. Reboot and re‑scan to ensure the threat is gone.

SpyHunter’s combined removal and cleaning approach ensures deeper cleanup than manual removal alone.

Option 1: Manual Browser Hijacker Removal

Step 1: Uninstall Suspicious Software

For Windows:

1. Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, and press Enter.
2. Look for recently installed or unknown software.
3. Select the suspicious program and click Uninstall.
4. Follow the uninstaller’s prompts.

For Mac:

1. Open Finder > Applications.
2. Locate any unfamiliar apps you didn’t intentionally install.
3. Drag them to the Trash.
4. Right-click the Trash and select Empty Trash.

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Step 2: Reset Each Web Browser Affected

Google Chrome:

1. Go to chrome://settings/reset.
2. Click Restore settings to their original defaults > Reset settings.
3. Then, visit chrome://extensions and remove any suspicious add-ons.
4. Change your search engine:
   Settings > Search Engine > Manage search engines — remove unwanted entries and set a trusted one like Google.

Mozilla Firefox:

1. Click the menu icon (three lines) > Help > More Troubleshooting Information.
2. Click Refresh Firefox.
3. After reset, check Add-ons and Themes and remove unwanted extensions.
4. Navigate to Settings > Home/Search and revert changes to your preferred provider.

Microsoft Edge:

1. Click menu (three dots) > Settings > Reset Settings > Restore settings to their default values.
2. Open edge://extensions and remove any unfamiliar plugins.
3. Reconfigure your homepage and search engine if needed.

Safari (Mac Only):

1. Open Safari > Click Safari in the top menu > Clear History (select All History).
2. Go to Preferences > Extensions, remove unknown entries.
3. Under General, set your homepage.
4. Under Search, revert to your preferred search provider.

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Step 3: Check and Clean Your Hosts File

On Windows:

1. Open Notepad as Administrator.
2. Go to:
   C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts
3. Look for unknown IPs or domains — remove them.
4. Save changes and reboot.

On Mac:

1. Open Terminal.
2. Run: sudo nano /etc/hosts
3. Identify and remove hijacker entries.
4. Press Control + O to save and Control + X to exit.

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Option 2: Automatic Removal Using SpyHunter

If you want a faster and safer solution — especially if the hijacker reinstalls after manual removal — use SpyHunter, a trusted anti-malware tool.

Step 1: Download SpyHunter

Visit the official download page: Download SpyHunter

Need help with the installation? Follow this page: SpyHunter Download Instructions

Step 2: Install and Launch the Program

1. Run the installer and follow the steps for your OS.
2. Open SpyHunter after installation.

Step 3: Perform a Full System Scan

1. Click Start Scan Now.
2. Wait while SpyHunter analyzes your computer for browser hijackers, malware, and other PUPs.
3. Once the scan completes, click Fix Threats to eliminate them.

Step 4: Reboot and Recheck Your Browser

After cleaning, restart your device. Open your browser and check if your homepage and search settings are restored. If not, perform a quick browser reset using the manual steps above.

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How to Prevent Future Infections

• Avoid downloading freeware from third-party sites.
• Use custom/advanced installation and deselect optional offers.
• Keep your browser and OS updated.
• Regularly scan your system with SpyHunter for proactive defense.
• Don’t click strange pop-ups or redirect links from unknown sources.

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Conclusion

API Cactus‑Search.com is a deceptive browser hijacker that aggressively forces redirections, tracks your activity, and serves intrusive ads. While not a traditional virus, its impact on privacy and browsing safety is substantial. Use SpyHunter to remove it, restore your browser settings, and regain full control. Stay vigilant during software installs—always choose Custom and opt out of any unwanted extras.