Startfenster.de Browser Hijacker Causes Unwanted Redirects

Startfenster dot de is the name of a browser hijacker that can affect most commonly used browsers.

Browser hijackers are a type of potentially unwanted program. Potentially unwanted programs or PUPs, in turn, are a category of software that fills the space between legitimate applications and full-blown malware that is much more dangerous than PUPs.

Startfenster will change your browser's default search engine and home page to its own. Those changes are usually done without asking for explicit user consent, which is undesirable behavior.

This type of potentially unwanted application is commonly distributed using software bundles found on some less reputable free download websites. In a bundle, there can be one legitimate app with one or more potentially unwanted programs piggy-backing inside the same installer package. Their presence is usually poorly disclosed and they are installed "quietly", without asking for permission.

Removing browser hijackers and other similar potentially unwanted applications from your system is usually a smart move. Even though they are not as dangerous as a virus or ransomware, they can diminish your browsing experience and expose you to potential privacy risks by collecting information on your searches or browsing habits.