Beware of the Finder-search.com Browser Hijacker
Finder-search.com is a malicious search engine that shows deceptive and unrelated content in its search results, which can be dangerous to users. Browser hijackers are often responsible for redirecting users to this website, as they assign it as the browser's default search engine, homepage, and new tab URL. It is very difficult to remove these hijackers from the browser as they use persistence-ensuring techniques.
Although finder-search.com does provide some search results, they are usually inaccurate or even malicious. Additionally, this website or the browser hijacker promoting it may collect sensitive data from users such as search queries typed in, URLs visited, webpages viewed, IP addresses (geolocations), usernames/passwords, personal information and financial details – all of which could be sold to third parties or abused for other nefarious purposes.
Users should be aware of the dangers of fake search engines like finder-search.com and take active steps to ensure their safety while browsing online. They should avoid clicking on links that redirect them to this website or any suspicious ones in general; instead they should use genuine search engines such as Google, Yahoo or Bing for their searches. Furthermore, if their browsers become hijacked they should seek assistance from a professional techie to help them remove the malicious software.
How Can You Steer Clear of Browser Hijackers and Fake Search Engines?
Follow these tips to protect your system from browser hijacking rogue extensions and fake search engines they promote:
- Install and regularly update a reputable anti-virus/anti-malware software.
- Research programs you download, and only download trustworthy ones.
- Use caution when downloading free software, and do not click on any promotional content/links included in its setup wizard.
- Be wary of suspicious emails that contain links or attachments – they may be malicious in nature.
- Do not visit shady websites, especially those that offer pirated content or illegal services/products.
- Disable the automatic installation of browser extensions/add-ons (by default).
- Avoid clicking ads and pop-ups that appear on unfamiliar websites – they can redirect to dangerous locations (e.g., fake search engines).
- If your browsers have been modified by hijacker software, reset them as soon as possible using their respective support guides and/or recovery tools provided by their developers (e.g., Chrome Cleanup Tool for Google Chrome).
