SearchOnSite.com Redirect

The SearchOnSite.com redirect is a browser hijacker that forcibly alters browser settings to promote a fake search engine. Users affected by this threat often experience unwanted redirects, degraded browsing performance, and an overall compromised online experience. Ignoring its presence can expose your system to additional threats and privacy risks.

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Threat Overview

Category	Details
Threat Type	Browser Hijacker
Associated Domain	searchonsite.com
Detection Names	BrowserModifier:Win32/SupTab, PUP.Optional.SearchOnSite, Adware.SearchOnSite
Symptoms of Infection	Browser redirects, changed homepage/new tab settings, slower browsing, exposure to unsafe ads
Damage & Distribution Methods	Alters browser settings, gathers search queries and browsing data; distributed via software bundling and deceptive ads
Danger Level	Moderate
Removal Tool	SpyHunter

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SearchOnSite.com Redirect: In-Depth Analysis

How Did I Get Infected?

The SearchOnSite.com hijacker often infiltrates systems through bundled software installers — particularly freeware or shareware downloads. It can also spread through deceptive ads, misleading browser extensions, or fake update notifications. Users typically allow the installation unknowingly by rushing through installation steps without customizing setup options.

What Does It Do?

Once inside your system, SearchOnSite.com modifies your browser’s settings without your permission. Your homepage, new tab page, and default search engine are replaced with searchonsite.com. Although it mimics a real search engine, it typically reroutes searches through low-quality providers or even dangerous websites filled with ads and misleading content. In some cases, it tracks browsing activities, exposing sensitive information to third-party advertisers.

Should You Be Worried for Your System?

Yes. Although SearchOnSite.com is not as damaging as ransomware or trojans, it still poses significant privacy and security risks. The forced redirects can lead to malicious websites capable of dropping additional malware onto your system. Additionally, the unauthorized collection of browsing data could result in serious privacy violations.

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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

Dealing with SearchOnSite.com can be frustrating and dangerous if not addressed promptly. The hijacker not only disrupts your browsing experience but can also lead to more severe cybersecurity threats. To ensure your device remains protected and fully operational, it’s highly recommended to use a professional malware removal tool like SpyHunter to detect and eliminate the hijacker and any related components.