Infird Browser Hijacker

Infird is a deceptive adware and browser hijacker that infiltrates systems through software bundling and misleading advertisements. Once embedded, it manipulates browser settings, injects intrusive ads, and collects user data without consent. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Infird, its impact, and the steps to remove it effectively.

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Threat Overview

Infird operates as both adware and a browser hijacker, altering browser configurations to redirect users to sponsored or malicious websites. It often comes bundled with free software or through deceptive ads, making its installation unnoticed by users. Once active, it can degrade system performance and compromise user privacy.

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Infird Threat Summary

Attribute	Details
Threat Type	Adware / Browser Hijacker
Associated Domain	infird.com
Detection Names	Varies; commonly detected as adware or PUP (Potentially Unwanted Program)
Symptoms of Infection	– Altered homepage and search engine – Frequent redirects – Intrusive ads – Sluggish browser performance
Damage & Distribution	– Alters browser settings – Collects browsing data – Distributed via software bundling and deceptive ads
Danger Level	Medium – Annoying and privacy-invasive, but not directly destructive
Removal Tool	SpyHunter

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Understanding the Infird Threat

How Did I Get Infected?

Infird typically infiltrates systems through:

• Software Bundling: Included with free software downloads from unverified sources.
• Deceptive Advertisements: Prompts users to install fake updates or plugins.
• Malicious Websites: Drive-by downloads when visiting compromised or malicious sites.

What Does It Do?

Once installed, Infird:

• Modifies Browser Settings: Changes homepage, default search engine, and new tab settings.
• Injects Advertisements: Displays pop-ups, banners, and in-text ads.
• Redirects Traffic: Leads users to sponsored or malicious websites.
• Collects Data: Tracks browsing habits, search queries, and potentially sensitive information.

Should You Be Concerned?

Yes. While Infird may not directly damage your system, its presence:

• Compromises Privacy: By collecting and potentially sharing your browsing data.
• Degrades Performance: Slows down browser and system operations.
• Increases Security Risks: By redirecting to potentially harmful websites.

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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.

Conclusion

Infird is more than just a nuisance; it’s a threat to your online security and privacy. Prompt removal is essential to restore your browser’s functionality and protect your data. Utilizing a reputable anti-malware tool like SpyHunter can ensure thorough elimination and prevent future infections.

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