Wigglewurm Unwanted Software Acts as Browser Hijacker

Wigglewurm is a piece of potentially unwanted software, classified as a browser hijacker due to its browser component.

Once activated, Wigglewurm is capable of producing a continuous flow of advertisements on the user’s screen and initiating redirects to various sponsored websites, promotional links, and web offers. If you are constantly seeing pop-up notifications, ads, or banners on your browser’s screen and your browser’s homepage and search engine have been changed to an unremovable one, it is possible that you have downloaded a browser hijacker like Wigglewurm.

These types of malware change your browser settings without your consent, which can lead you to undesirable and potentially dangerous websites.

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What Are the Typical Signs of Having a Browser Hijacker on Your Computer?

When you have a browser hijacker on your computer, you may notice the following signs:

Changes in browser settings: Your browser homepage, default search engine, and new tab page may be modified without your consent.

Pop-up ads and banners: You may start seeing an unusual amount of pop-up ads and banners appearing on your browser's screen, even on websites that don't typically display ads.

Unwanted toolbars and extensions: Browser hijackers may install toolbars and extensions on your browser that you didn't intend to download.

Slow browsing speed: The browser may take longer than usual to load pages, or it may freeze or crash frequently.

Redirects: You may be redirected to unknown or suspicious websites when you click on links or try to visit legitimate websites.

If you notice any of these signs, it's possible that your computer is infected with a browser hijacker, and you should take steps to remove it as soon as possible.

How Are Browser Hijackers Most Commonly Distributed?

Browser hijackers can be distributed through various methods, including:

Bundled with other software: Browser hijackers can be bundled with legitimate software, such as free downloads and updates, which may trick users into installing them unintentionally.
Malicious websites: Malicious websites can prompt users to download and install software, which may include browser hijackers.
Spam emails and attachments: Some browser hijackers may be distributed through spam emails and attachments that encourage users to download and install certain software.
Fake updates and alerts: Some browser hijackers may disguise themselves as fake updates or security alerts, urging users to download and install them to fix an issue.
Unsecured networks: Public Wi-Fi networks or other unsecured networks can also be a source of browser hijackers, as they may be used to distribute malware to unsuspecting users.