SearchThatWeb.com is a rogue search engine classified as a browser hijacker. It infiltrates browsers through deceptive distribution methods, usually bundled with freeware installations. Once inside, it alters key browser settings—such as the homepage, new tab page, and default search engine—forcing users to use its unreliable search service. Besides the irritation, SearchThatWeb.com exposes users to privacy risks by collecting sensitive browsing data.
Threat Overview
Category | Details |
---|---|
Threat Type | Browser Hijacker |
Associated Domain | SearchThatWeb.com |
Detection Names | BrowserModifier:Win32/SupTab, Adware.SearchHijacker, PUP.Optional.SearchThatWeb |
Symptoms of Infection | Homepage, search engine, or new tab settings changed; intrusive ads; redirects to unfamiliar sites; slower browser performance |
Damage and Distribution Methods | Alters browser settings, collects browsing data, injects ads; spreads via software bundling, deceptive ads, and fake updates |
Danger Level | Medium |
Removal Tool | SpyHunter |
In-Depth Look: What SearchThatWeb.com Redirect Does
How I Got Infected
SearchThatWeb.com typically sneaks into systems bundled with free software downloads from third-party sites. When users rush through installation steps without checking “Advanced” or “Custom” options, they unknowingly approve additional, unwanted applications.
What Does It Do
Once installed, this browser hijacker:
- Forces SearchThatWeb.com as the default search engine, homepage, and new tab URL.
- Displays intrusive advertisements, pop-ups, and sponsored links.
- Tracks browsing habits, search queries, visited websites, and even personal information to sell to third parties.
- Decreases browser speed and overall system performance.
Should You Be Worried for Your System
Yes. Although SearchThatWeb.com is not as dangerous as ransomware or Trojans, it still compromises your privacy, clutters your browsing experience with unwanted ads, and can indirectly expose you to more severe cyber threats via malicious redirects. Immediate removal is highly recommended.
Option 1: Manual Browser Hijacker Removal
Step 1: Uninstall Suspicious Software
For Windows:
- Press
Windows + R
, typeappwiz.cpl
, and press Enter. - Look for recently installed or unknown software.
- Select the suspicious program and click Uninstall.
- Follow the uninstaller’s prompts.
For Mac:
- Open Finder > Applications.
- Locate any unfamiliar apps you didn’t intentionally install.
- Drag them to the Trash.
- Right-click the Trash and select Empty Trash.
Step 2: Reset Each Web Browser Affected
Google Chrome:
- Go to chrome://settings/reset.
- Click Restore settings to their original defaults > Reset settings.
- Then, visit chrome://extensions and remove any suspicious add-ons.
- Change your search engine:
Settings > Search Engine > Manage search engines — remove unwanted entries and set a trusted one like Google.
Mozilla Firefox:
- Click the menu icon (three lines) > Help > More Troubleshooting Information.
- Click Refresh Firefox.
- After reset, check Add-ons and Themes and remove unwanted extensions.
- Navigate to Settings > Home/Search and revert changes to your preferred provider.
Microsoft Edge:
- Click menu (three dots) > Settings > Reset Settings > Restore settings to their default values.
- Open edge://extensions and remove any unfamiliar plugins.
- Reconfigure your homepage and search engine if needed.
Safari (Mac Only):
- Open Safari > Click Safari in the top menu > Clear History (select All History).
- Go to Preferences > Extensions, remove unknown entries.
- Under General, set your homepage.
- Under Search, revert to your preferred search provider.
Step 3: Check and Clean Your Hosts File
On Windows:
- Open Notepad as Administrator.
- Go to:
C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts
- Look for unknown IPs or domains — remove them.
- Save changes and reboot.
On Mac:
- Open Terminal.
- Run:
sudo nano /etc/hosts
- Identify and remove hijacker entries.
- Press
Control + O
to save andControl + X
to exit.
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
- Run the installer and follow the steps for your OS.
- Open SpyHunter after installation.
Step 3: Perform a Full System Scan
- Click Start Scan Now.
- Wait while SpyHunter analyzes your computer for browser hijackers, malware, and other PUPs.
- 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.
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
SearchThatWeb.com is a highly intrusive browser hijacker that significantly disrupts normal browsing activities while putting your personal data at risk. Users should act quickly to remove this threat using a reliable anti-malware tool like SpyHunter to regain full control over their browsers and protect their digital privacy.