Croursem.co.in is a rogue website that manipulates browser notification features to bombard users with intrusive ads, redirect them to potentially harmful sites, and compromise their online security. This threat is part of a broader category of browser hijackers that exploit legitimate browser functionalities for malicious purposes.
Threat Overview
Croursem.co.in operates by presenting users with deceptive prompts, often masquerading as CAPTCHA verifications, to trick them into allowing browser notifications. Once permission is granted, the site can deliver a barrage of unwanted ads directly to the user’s device, even when the browser is closed. These notifications may lead to phishing sites, malware downloads, or other scams.
Threat Summary
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Threat Type | Browser Hijacker / Adware |
Associated Domain | croursem.co.in |
Detection Names | Not specified |
Symptoms of Infection | – Intrusive pop-up ads – Redirects to untrustworthy websites – Decreased browsing speed – Unwanted browser notifications |
Damage & Distribution | – Exploits browser notification feature to deliver spam – Redirects to potentially malicious sites – May lead to malware infections or phishing attacks |
Danger Level | Moderate |
Removal Tool | SpyHunter |
In-Depth Analysis
How Did I Get Infected?
Users typically encounter Croursem.co.in through redirects from compromised or low-quality websites, often those hosting pirated content, adult material, or free streaming services. These sites may display fake CAPTCHA prompts or other deceptive messages encouraging users to click “Allow” to proceed, thereby granting permission for browser notifications.
What Does It Do?
Once the user clicks “Allow,” Croursem.co.in gains the ability to send push notifications directly to the user’s device. These notifications can appear at any time, regardless of whether the browser is open, and often contain links to:
- Phishing websites
- Malware downloads
- Fake software updates
- Scam offers or surveys
Additionally, the site may cause frequent redirects to other malicious or unwanted websites, further compromising the user’s browsing experience and security.
Should You Be Worried?
Yes. While Croursem.co.in may not directly install malware on your system, its behavior can lead to significant security risks, including:
- Exposure to phishing attacks
- Unintentional malware downloads
- Compromised personal information
- Decreased system performance due to excessive ads and redirects
Prompt action is recommended to mitigate these risks.
Option 1: Manual Browser Hijacker Removal
Step 1: Uninstall Suspicious Software
For Windows:
- Press
Windows + R
, typeappwiz.cpl
, and press Enter. - Look for recently installed or unknown software.
- Select the suspicious program and click Uninstall.
- Follow the uninstaller’s prompts.
For Mac:
- Open Finder > Applications.
- Locate any unfamiliar apps you didn’t intentionally install.
- Drag them to the Trash.
- Right-click the Trash and select Empty Trash.
Step 2: Reset Each Web Browser Affected
Google Chrome:
- Go to chrome://settings/reset.
- Click Restore settings to their original defaults > Reset settings.
- Then, visit chrome://extensions and remove any suspicious add-ons.
- Change your search engine:
Settings > Search Engine > Manage search engines — remove unwanted entries and set a trusted one like Google.
Mozilla Firefox:
- Click the menu icon (three lines) > Help > More Troubleshooting Information.
- Click Refresh Firefox.
- After reset, check Add-ons and Themes and remove unwanted extensions.
- Navigate to Settings > Home/Search and revert changes to your preferred provider.
Microsoft Edge:
- Click menu (three dots) > Settings > Reset Settings > Restore settings to their default values.
- Open edge://extensions and remove any unfamiliar plugins.
- Reconfigure your homepage and search engine if needed.
Safari (Mac Only):
- Open Safari > Click Safari in the top menu > Clear History (select All History).
- Go to Preferences > Extensions, remove unknown entries.
- Under General, set your homepage.
- Under Search, revert to your preferred search provider.
Step 3: Check and Clean Your Hosts File
On Windows:
- Open Notepad as Administrator.
- Go to:
C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts
- Look for unknown IPs or domains — remove them.
- Save changes and reboot.
On Mac:
- Open Terminal.
- Run:
sudo nano /etc/hosts
- Identify and remove hijacker entries.
- Press
Control + O
to save andControl + X
to exit.
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
- Run the installer and follow the steps for your OS.
- Open SpyHunter after installation.
Step 3: Perform a Full System Scan
- Click Start Scan Now.
- Wait while SpyHunter analyzes your computer for browser hijackers, malware, and other PUPs.
- 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.
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.
Conclusion
Croursem.co.in is a deceptive browser hijacker that exploits the push notification feature to deliver unwanted ads and potentially expose users to various online threats. By understanding how it operates and taking appropriate measures, users can protect their systems from such intrusive behavior.