Search.live-history.com Redirect

Search.live-history.com is a browser hijacker that alters browser settings without user consent. It forces redirects to its fake search engine, severely disrupting normal web browsing activities. Although it appears to offer legitimate search functions, its primary goal is to generate revenue through sponsored content and collect user data. Immediate removal of this hijacker is highly recommended to protect personal information and ensure system security.

Overview of Search.live-history.com Threat

Feature	Details
Threat Type	Browser Hijacker
Associated Domain	Search.live-history.com
Detection Names	BrowserModifier:Win32/Prifou, Adware.SearchLiveHistory, PUP.Optional.SearchLiveHistory
Symptoms of Infection	Altered browser homepage and default search engine, intrusive ads, redirects to Search.live-history.com
Damage and Distribution Methods	Data tracking, intrusive ads; spread via bundled freeware, fake installers, malicious ads
Danger Level	Medium
Removal Tool	SpyHunter

Evaluating the Search.live-history.com Redirect Threat

How Did I Get Infected?

Search.live-history.com typically infiltrates systems through deceptive methods such as bundling with freeware, fake software updates, or malicious advertisements. Users often unintentionally allow the installation when they rush through software setups without reviewing the bundled offers.

What Does It Do?

Once installed, Search.live-history.com modifies critical browser settings including the homepage, new tab page, and default search engine settings. It forces all search queries and web traffic through its own server, allowing it to collect search terms, IP addresses, and browsing habits. Additionally, it injects intrusive ads, banners, and sponsored links into search results, severely compromising browsing quality and user privacy.

Should You Be Worried for Your System?

While Search.live-history.com is not classified as a high-risk malware like ransomware, it still poses significant risks. The data tracking practices can lead to privacy issues, and exposure to additional malware threats through malicious ads is a real danger. Prompt action is required to fully remove the hijacker and prevent further compromise.

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

The Search.live-history.com redirect is a clear threat to your online privacy and browsing experience. By hijacking your browser settings, it not only degrades system performance but also exposes your system to more severe threats. Use a reputable tool like SpyHunter to swiftly eliminate Search.live-history.com and safeguard your device from further issues.