How to Identify and Remove SpeedyLook Browser Hijacker: A Comprehensive Guide

Browser hijackers are a category of malware specifically designed to take control of a user’s internet browser, altering settings and redirecting them to various unwanted websites. Unlike typical adware, which merely displays ads, browser hijackers go a step further by changing homepage settings, default search engines, or even installing unwanted toolbars to facilitate intrusive redirections. These changes often serve the purpose of driving traffic to specific websites, usually for monetary gain or to collect browsing data that could then be used or sold for targeted advertising purposes. While adware generally focuses on generating revenue by showing users as many ads as possible, browser hijackers can be more intrusive, compromising user privacy and computer performance by making fundamental alterations to browser settings.

SpeedyLook: How It Works and Why It’s Dangerous

SpeedyLook is a browser hijacker that targets various internet browsers to manipulate user search settings and direct traffic toward specific websites. Once installed, SpeedyLook replaces the default homepage, new tab page, and search engine settings with a predetermined page or search engine. This browser hijacker commonly installs through deceptive installation processes—typically bundled with freeware or shareware, often without the user’s direct knowledge. Many users inadvertently allow the hijacker to install by skipping through installation settings, which is where SpeedyLook hides within optional “additional software” packages.

After hijacking a browser, SpeedyLook exposes users to various risks. It actively redirects users to specific affiliate websites and can display numerous ads, including pop-ups and banners, that can lead to unreliable or even malicious sites. It may track browsing history, search queries, IP addresses, and other personal data, posing a significant privacy risk. By collecting this data, SpeedyLook can contribute to invasive targeted advertising and even identity theft if sensitive data is mishandled or leaked.

Detecting SpeedyLook: Anti-Malware Detection Names

Identifying SpeedyLook on a computer is crucial for its removal. Several anti-malware tools use different names to detect this browser hijacker. Common detection names used by various security programs include:

• PUP.Optional.SpeedyLook
• BrowserModifier:Win32/SpeedyLook
• Adware.SpeedyLook
• Potentially Unwanted Program (PUP): SpeedyLook

If your anti-malware tool flags any of these detection names, it likely indicates the presence of SpeedyLook on your system, requiring prompt action to remove it.

Similar Threats to Watch Out For

SpeedyLook isn’t the only browser hijacker posing a risk to users. There are several similar threats that users may encounter, including:

• MySearch123: Another hijacker that takes over browser search engines and homepages.
• Delta Search: Known for aggressively redirecting search results and promoting specific affiliate sites.
• Search Protect: A persistent hijacker that modifies browser settings and redirects users to promotional sites.
• Binkiland: Redirects user searches to ad-heavy sites and collects browsing data.

These hijackers function similarly to SpeedyLook and share the same goals of monetization and data collection.

How to Remove SpeedyLook: Step-by-Step Guide

To completely eliminate SpeedyLook from your system, follow these comprehensive steps.

Step 1: Uninstall Suspicious Programs

1. Open Control Panel (or Settings on Windows 10 and 11) and go to Programs and Features.
2. Look for any recently installed or unfamiliar applications, especially those that appeared around the time SpeedyLook began to interfere with your browser.
3. Select the suspicious program and click Uninstall. Follow the on-screen instructions to remove it.

Step 2: Reset Your Browser Settings

Each browser requires a slightly different approach to reset settings.

For Google Chrome:

1. Open Chrome, click on the three-dot menu in the top right corner, then go to Settings.
2. Scroll down and click on Reset settings, then select Restore settings to their original defaults.
3. Confirm by clicking Reset settings.

For Mozilla Firefox:

1. Open Firefox, click on the three horizontal lines in the top right corner, and choose Help.
2. Select More troubleshooting information and click Refresh Firefox.
3. Confirm by clicking Refresh Firefox again.

For Microsoft Edge:

1. Open Edge, click on the three-dot menu in the top right corner, and go to Settings.
2. Click on Reset settings in the left sidebar, then select Restore settings to their default values.
3. Confirm by clicking Reset.

Step 3: Remove Malicious Extensions

1. Open your browser and go to the Extensions or Add-ons menu.
2. Review the installed extensions, and remove any that appear suspicious or unfamiliar.
3. Disable or delete any extensions that may have been added without your knowledge.

Step 4: Run a Full System Scan with SpyHunter

1. Download and install SpyHunter, a powerful anti-malware tool specifically designed to detect and remove threats like SpeedyLook.
2. Open SpyHunter, click on Scan Now to initiate a comprehensive system scan.
3. Wait for the scan to complete, and then review the detected threats. Ensure that SpeedyLook or any related malware is selected.
4. Click Fix Threats to remove the detected items and eliminate SpeedyLook from your computer.

Preventing Future Infections

To reduce the risk of browser hijackers like SpeedyLook infecting your system in the future, consider these preventive measures:

• Avoid Freeware from Unofficial Sites: Only download software from reputable sources to minimize the risk of bundled malware.
• Choose Custom Installation Options: When installing new software, always opt for the “Custom” or “Advanced” installation settings to uncheck any unwanted programs.
• Use Trusted Anti-Malware Software: Regularly scan your system using anti-malware tools like SpyHunter to detect and eliminate potential threats.
• Be Wary of Suspicious Links: Avoid clicking on ads or links from untrustworthy sources, as these can lead to malware installations.

Conclusion

SpeedyLook is a deceptive browser hijacker that can severely disrupt a user’s browsing experience, compromise privacy, and expose users to further security threats. If you suspect SpeedyLook has infected your system, follow this guide to remove it promptly. Protect your system by using trusted anti-malware solutions like SpyHunter and adopting safe browsing practices to guard against future threats.