Customsearch.quickshoppers.co, also known as QuickShoppers.co, is a browser hijacker that redirects your web traffic through a fake search engine. It alters your browser’s homepage, search engine settings, and new tab functionality to push ads and harvest data. This intrusive behavior compromises both your online experience and privacy. Immediate removal is highly recommended to prevent data leaks and reduce exposure to malicious websites.
Threat Overview
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Threat type | Browser Hijacker / Redirect / Search Hijacker |
Associated domain | customsearch.quickshoppers.co , quickshoppers.co |
Detection names | Generic browser hijacker, potentially unwanted application (PUA) |
Symptoms of infection | Search engine redirects, ads in search results, unknown browser extensions |
Damage / distribution | Tracking data, redirecting to unsafe pages; spread via freeware bundling and deceptive ads |
Danger level | Medium – poses risks to privacy and leads to untrusted third-party sites |
Removal tool | SpyHunter – Download Here |
In-Depth Threat Analysis
How I Got Infected
Most users become infected with QuickShoppers.co through bundled freeware installers or misleading download buttons. When users rush through installation without reading the prompts, they unknowingly allow additional software—like browser hijackers—to install alongside legitimate apps.
What Does It Do?
Once inside the system, QuickShoppers.co modifies browser settings to forcibly redirect users to its own search engine. The search results are filled with sponsored content and paid ads, often leading to potentially harmful websites. It also installs extensions or plug-ins without consent, which are used to monitor search queries, browsing history, and geolocation data.
Should You Be Worried for Your System?
Yes. While it doesn’t cause direct file damage like ransomware, the hijacker is designed to spy on your online activity and monetize your browsing through ad injections and partner redirects. This behavior exposes you to phishing attempts, scam websites, and potentially even malware downloads.
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
Customsearch.quickshoppers.co is more than just an annoyance. It actively changes browser configurations, injects unwanted ads, and compromises user privacy by tracking browsing activity. If you notice your homepage or search engine has suddenly changed, or if you’re being bombarded with suspicious redirects, your system is likely compromised by this hijacker. Use a trusted tool like SpyHunter to identify and eliminate all related components from your device.