Searchmana.com is a malicious program categorized as a browser hijacker that targets web browsers to redirect users to its promoted search engine. This type of malware typically infiltrates computers through deceptive software bundling or deceptive online ads. Once installed, it modifies browser settings without user consent, changing the default homepage, search engine, and new tab page to searchmana.com.
Actions and Consequences
Upon infection, searchmana.com alters the browsing experience by:
- Modifying Browser Settings: It changes the default search engine and homepage settings of popular web browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge.
- Redirecting Web Searches: Any search conducted through the browser’s address bar may be redirected to searchmana.com or other sponsored search engines.
- Injecting Advertisements: Users may encounter an increased number of pop-up ads, banners, and in-text links injected into visited websites.
These actions not only disrupt the user experience but also pose privacy risks as searchmana.com and similar browser hijackers may track browsing habits and gather sensitive information.
Detection and Similar Threats
Detection names for searchmana.com may include:
- BrowserModifier:Win32/Searchman
- PUP.Optional.Searchmana
Similar threats to be aware of include other browser hijackers like:
- Searchopa.com
- Searchmine.net
- SearchMarquis.com
Removal Guide for Searchmana.com
To remove searchmana.com from your system manually, follow these steps:
- Uninstall Suspicious Programs:
- Go to Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a Program.
- Look for any recently installed suspicious applications, especially those that match the behavior of browser hijackers.
- Right-click and select Uninstall.
- Remove Searchmana.com from Web Browsers:
- Google Chrome:
- Open Chrome, click the three dots menu (⋮) and choose Settings.
- Go to On startup, check if searchmana.com is listed and remove it.
- Go to Search engine and set your preferred search engine (e.g., Google) as default.
- Go to Extensions, remove any suspicious extensions related to searchmana.com.
- Mozilla Firefox:
- Open Firefox, click the three lines menu (≡) and choose Options.
- In the General tab, remove searchmana.com from the homepage field.
- Go to Search tab, remove searchmana.com from the list of search engines.
- Go to Extensions & Themes, remove any suspicious add-ons related to searchmana.com.
- Microsoft Edge:
- Open Edge, click the three dots menu (…) and choose Settings.
- Under On startup, check if searchmana.com is listed and remove it.
- Go to Privacy, search, and services, set your preferred search engine.
- Go to Extensions, remove any suspicious extensions related to searchmana.com.
- Google Chrome:
- Reset Web Browsers: If the above steps don’t resolve the issue, reset your web browsers to their default settings. This action removes extensions and custom settings.
- Scan Your Computer for Malware:
- Use reputable antivirus or antimalware software to perform a full system scan.
- Remove any threats detected.
- Check Hosts File (Optional): Malware sometimes modifies the hosts file to prevent access to antivirus and security websites. Check and restore if necessary.
- Clear Browser Data: After removing searchmana.com, clear browser cache, cookies, and saved passwords to ensure no remnants of the malware persist.
Prevention Tips
To prevent future infections by browser hijackers like searchmana.com, follow these best practices:
- Be Cautious with Downloads: Only download software from official sources.
- Custom Installation: Always opt for custom or advanced installation options to avoid bundled software.
- Keep Software Updated: Ensure your operating system and all software are up to date with the latest security patches.
- Use Reliable Security Software: Install reputable antivirus or antimalware software and keep it updated.
- Be Wary of Pop-ups: Avoid clicking on suspicious pop-up ads or banners, especially those offering free software or claiming your system is infected.
