Review4.in Redirect

A recent case revealed browsers suddenly routing all searches to a suspicious domain: review4.in, accompanied by fake malware alerts and endless pop-ups. While it doesn’t directly corrupt files, this hijacker modifies browser settings, forces unwanted redirects, and harvests browsing data—making it a serious privacy and user-experience threat.

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Threat Overview

Review4.in is a type of browser hijacker—dubious software that takes over your homepage, search engine, and new-tab behavior. It’s not just annoying: it can expose you to phishing links, display deceptive ads, slow browsing, and collect sensitive information.

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In-Depth Analysis

Infection Vector

• Often bundled with free apps or browser extensions
• Clicking deceptive pop-ups or “install” prompts also loads it
• May install silently without clear user consent

Behavioral Profile

1. Installs a browser extension or modifies browser policies
2. Hijacks homepage, default search engine, new-tab pages
3. Injects pop-ups, fake antivirus alerts, tracking modules
4. Redirects searches and logs browsing habits
5. May block user attempts to reset settings

Risk Assessment

Though it lacks destructive payloads, this hijacker:

• Violates privacy by monitoring browsing
• Promotes risky content, sometimes phishing
• Degrades performance and user experience

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Artifact Text

No ransom notes. Core evidence lies in extensions, registry, and browser settings.

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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.

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Conclusion

Review4.in may seem minor compared to ransomware, but it undermines privacy, degrades browsing, and opens the door to more serious threats. Early removal is vital. Carefully step through this guide, use reputable malware cleaners, and restore your browser settings to stay secure and ad-free.