Bequalmal.com is a deceptive website that tricks users into enabling push notifications using misleading prompts such as “Click Allow to confirm you are not a robot.” Once permission is granted, users are bombarded with intrusive ads and redirected to suspicious, potentially harmful websites. This behavior is typical of browser hijackers and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), which aim to compromise browsing security and personal privacy.
Threat Overview
Bequalmal.com operates as a browser hijacker and notification spammer. It manipulates browser settings and abuses web push notifications to flood the user’s screen with ads. These ads may link to phishing pages, scam offers, or malware-infected sites. The goal is to generate revenue for the operators and potentially harvest sensitive information from the victim.
Bequalmal.com Threat Details
Category | Details |
---|---|
Threat Type | Browser Hijacker, Notification Spam, PUP |
Associated Domain | bequalmal.com |
Detection Names | PUP.Optional.Bequalmal, Adware.Bequalmal, BrowserHijacker.Bequalmal |
Symptoms of Infection | Excessive pop-up ads, browser redirects, changed homepage/search engine |
Damage & Distribution | Hijacks browser settings, collects user data, spreads via software bundling or shady ads |
Danger Level | Medium to High – depending on exposure to malicious redirects |
Removal Tool | SpyHunter |
How Did I Get Infected?
Bequalmal.com typically infiltrates systems through deceptive online ads, bundled software downloads, or fake browser extensions. Users often encounter it after clicking on misleading alerts or visiting untrustworthy streaming, torrent, or gaming websites. The infection can also begin after installing free software that comes packaged with hidden components promoting Bequalmal.com.
What Does It Do?
Once Bequalmal.com gains access:
- It displays persistent and aggressive push notifications
- It changes your browser’s homepage and default search engine
- It redirects you to untrustworthy, scam-laden websites
- It may track your IP, location, browsing activity, and system data
- It exposes your device to other malware through malicious ads
Should You Be Worried?
Yes. While Bequalmal.com is not a traditional virus, its behavior is invasive and potentially dangerous. The push notifications may contain phishing links or lead to malware-laced domains. It can also open the door to identity theft by collecting browsing history and other personal details. The longer it remains active on your device, the higher the risk of system compromise or financial fraud.
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
Bequalmal.com is a browser hijacker and notification spammer that aggressively pushes ads and redirects users to unsafe sites. It may seem like a minor annoyance, but it poses real risks to your system’s integrity and your personal privacy. For complete removal and to block future infections, it’s highly recommended to use a professional-grade anti-malware tool like SpyHunter.